The Adams State University Lifeways of the San Luis Valley next public presentation will feature a historical perspective of Martin Luther King Jr.’s role in the Civil Rights Movement through one of his famous sermons, Why I Am Opposed to the Vietnam War. The presentation begins at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, in McDaniel Hall room 101. A reception honoring US veterans will follow. The event is free and open to the public.
Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most well-known social activists of the mid 1950’s. He played a fundamental role in the American Civil Rights Movement and his passions included African-American equality, following advocates of nonviolence, and peace protests. The Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 are a few of his prestigious accomplishments. He was also awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and has his very own United States federal holiday.
King was born in 1929, the middle of three children to Martin Luther King Sr. and Alberta Williams King. As an adolescent, King progressed through segregated public schools until being accepted into Morehouse College at the age of 15. He pursued an education in medicine and law and joined the ministry. King graduated from Boston University where he met and later married Coretta Scott. The couple had four children and settled in Montgomery.
As the battle for civil rights began King found himself playing the role of spokesman and protest leader in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. King traveled the world giving speeches and meeting with influential people as a part of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in hopes of gaining equality. King organized and led the March on Washington, aiding the passing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. During this march, King delivered his legendary "I Have a Dream" speech.
After the Voting Rights Act was passed by Congress, King began to pursue the issue of the Vietnam War and American poverty. On April 4, 1968, King was shot and killed, leaving behind a legacy that will forever live on.
Lifeways of the San Luis Valley celebrates the rich history and diversity of the San Luis Valley. The course and lecture series are made possible through grants from the Sangre De Cristo National Heritage Area and Kenzo Kawanabe of the Boettcher Foundation.
Parking is located east of McDaniel Hall. Adams State parking lots do not require permits after 5 p.m.
