The 36th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration honors the legacy of Dr. King and the impact he has made on those who carry the torch for humanity. The theme of the Commemoration is Dr. King’s concept of the Beloved Community. 

Geoff K. Ward, professor of African and African American studies and director of the WashU & Slavery Project, will provide the keynote address.

Kelvin Adams, who retired in December as St. Louis Public Schools superintendent, and Deidra Thomas-Murray, the district’s students in transition coordinator and foster care liaison, will be honored with the annual Rosa L. Parks Award. 

Washington University Chancellor Andrew D. Martin, Provost Beverly Wendland, and Rev. Callista Isabelle, Washington University Director for Religious, Spiritual and Ethical Life, will provide remarks. The commemoration includes performances by Black Anthology, the Washington University student run production group and the Washington University Concert Choir. A reception in the Danforth University Center (DUC) follows the program. The event is free and open to the public.