Scheduled 2008 events celebrated the courage, the humility and the purpose of Martin Luther King, Jr. Alma's panel discussion delivered insight into the effects of music on social activism and how corporations control the message. In Jeff Johnson's keynote speech, he reminded us that King never expected nor wanted memorials to the man, rather adherence to the principles of justice and equality. This page will chronicle the events with podcasts, photos and videos.
Voices of a Generation, the recurring theme in Alma College's week-long commemoration of the legacy of Martin Luther King. Jr. was an appropriate subject for Jeff Johnson, political motivator and social commentator most widely known for his appearance on Black Entertainment Television shows The Jeff Johnson Chronicles and Rap City. On these shows, Johnson is known for voicing challenges to the issues of violence and voting. In his speaking engagements, he encourages his audiences to find the new leader to reclaim the leadership mantle of luminaries like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and help their communities and each other by continuing the legacy of great social leaders.
Why are you alive? Video highlight of Johnson's speech
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Johnson's Keynote Speech Podcast On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, Jan. 21, Johnson led a spirited panel discussion engaging students on the topic of "Voices of a Generation: Music, Media and Social Activism." This podcast of the event features keynote speaker Jeff Johnson, Tim O'Brien, assistant director of broadcast and Web communications for the Central Michigan University Office of Public Relations and Marketing and a freelance film maker, and Mike Johnston, music teacher and musician and the host of Destination Out jazz program on public radio. Alma student Duncan Ferguson '10 recorded the discussion.
Voices of a Generation: Music, Media and Social Activism Podcast
The Third Annual MLK Poetry Slam featured students, faculty and staff reading their original poetry and other poets' thoughts on race, justice and equality.
The Third Annual MLK Poetry Slam
Deanna Daniels '10, Maywood. Il, won the Second Annual Reflections on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy Contest with a dance titled Dance to Action. Jacob Hanley '09, Memphis, created a video reflecting on the civil rights movement that placed second and a poem by Holly Dukes '12, earned third place.
The student competition to reflect on the legacy of Dr. King focused on social activism, the theme for the 2008 week-long celebration of the civil rights activist’s life and times. Students were encouraged to reflect on Dr. King’s message and its place in the world today through the medium of the student’s choosing: writing, music, media technology, posters, performance, art, for example.
