This year’s virtual celebration will be streamed on Facebook Live on January 15, 2021, at 5:00 pm, through the University of Mississippi Facebook page.

The theme of this year’s MLK Day Celebration is “Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?” This theme comes from the title of Dr. King’s 1967 book, written in a time of tremendous social upheaval not dissimilar to 2020. During both periods, millions of Americans took to the streets to protest the continuing problem of police and vigilante violence directed at Black Americans. The nation endured national elections where issues of racism were central – and where people on all sides of the spectrum emerged feeling wounded. But added to this year is a global pandemic that has ravaged the nation, a health and economic crisis that has hit communities of color particularly hard.

As we turn the page to a new year filled with anticipation and hope, we are pleased to announce University of Mississippi alumnus Dr. Mike Edmondswill be our featured guest speaker to reflect on the path ahead in light of Dr. King’s life and legacy. Dr. Edmonds will speak on the theme of community in a time of crisis, building on his passion for the University of Mississippi and drawing on his experience as a leader in higher education to inspire us to aspire towards Dr. King’s Beloved Community.