Martin King Event or Response Post
I decided it would be clearer if I gave you a separate place to post the Kind Day Event essay response. This assignment isn't due until 1/21.
Assignment 2
Attend an event or read an article about Martin King Day celebrations here or elsewhere and post a response/summary here. This assignment is due by 1/21 8 a.m. Please include references (1-3). Use MLA style for references. Visit http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/557/01/
I decided it would be clearer if I gave you a separate place to post the Kind Day Event essay response. This assignment isn't due until 1/21.
Assignment 2
Attend an event or read an article about Martin King Day celebrations here or elsewhere and post a response/summary here. This assignment is due by 1/21 8 a.m. Please include references (1-3). Use MLA style for references. Visit http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/557/01/
posted by Professor Wanda's Posse at 11:31 AM
29 Comments:
Rebecca Evans response to Martin Luther King Jr. event response 1/18/09 Engligh 1a 9-9:50
On Thursday, January 15th, a large group gathered at the Frank H. Ogawa Plaza in Oakland to listen to speakers including: Mayor Dellums and Angela Glove Blackwell. Blackwell is the founder of PolicyLink, a research institute focusing on economic and social equity. The event also featured The Oakland School for the Arts drum corps and the Oakland Public Theater, reading excerpts from some of King’s speeches. The gathering ruminated on the approach King would have taken in response to Oscar Grant, III’s death. The people were happy to be celebrating King’s birthday and accomplishments wishing he would be here now to guide the unfortunate who can still not see the benefits of peaceful protest and direct action.
I am honored to live in a country blessed by such people as Martin Luther King, Jr. He left an irrevocable mark on our society, way of life and our values. It is a shame that Oscar Grant, III lost his life. If, indeed, the act of the BART policeman were racially based, I would be deeply disappointed of our police force that is in charge of protecting our wellbeing. The protestors on Wednesday night followed in King’s footsteps, working for peace and fostering hope. I agree with the people at the celebration who felt that to have Martin Luther King Jr. here today to lead the lost souls of violent protest toward peace and dignity would be a blessing. Blackwell urged the gathering of people to celebrate the day as King would have intended it: a national day of service. I speak for myself that service is a large part of my life and I will proudly follow King in service on his special day and the whole year through.
Dunlap, Kamika.“Oakland honors King on his 80th birthday.”Oakland Tribune 17 Jan. 2009:A1-A17.
Rebecca Evans English 1a 9-10 response to Martin Luther King Jr. event
I really like the fact that Obama has focused the celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. day as a day honoring King by serving our communities. I find much joy and fulfillment when volunteering all through the year but I am especially happy to provide my services to the less fortunate in Honor of Martin Luther King Jr.
Today I volunteered at Bay View Nursing home in Alameda. To some, a nursing home is simply a smelly place to stay away from. However, many of the residents at Bay View have little or no families. All people old and young deserve quality time and attention to them and their unique qualities. It is magical to converse, play games, and do crafts with the residents. They have so many beautiful stories to share and compare to our modern world today. I am honored to serve and share my abilities when and wherever possible.
Today Monday on Martin Luther King’s birthday, Berkeley students, parents, teachers, and anyone who wanted to join in marched from Jefferson Elementary School to Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in Berkeley. I joined my cousin as we walked from Thomas Jefferson, who kept slaves on his plantation to Martin Luther King who was a staunch advocate for de – segregation in America. It amazes me how different these men are, yet both are held in high regard in America. They are famous men throughout history and we celebrate both men for very different reasons. Thomas Jefferson was a founding father of America, and Dr. King raised issues and fought for a cause that was a part of the American lifestyle at the time.
We marched from the “ old philosophies” to the “ new way of life, “ purposely to show the students that we will be soon coming into a new era, one filled hopefully with change, the common thread through all three men, Thomas Jefferson, Martin Luther King Jr. and Barack Obama. Thomas Jefferson fought for liberty and freedom from the British. Dr. King fought for racial freedom, in the “land of the Free and Home of the brave,” and Barack Obama, the President elect, fights to become history as the first president who is not Caucasian.
So the march was very peacefully, people along the street would clap, or ask question and give us their support for what we were doing. Vehicles’ driving along the route would honk and wave or give the thumbs up sign. When we got to the MLK Middle School we were treated to a buffet of snack food and a video of the “I have a Dream” speech by Dr. King audio while a montage of pictures played in a slideshow format.
It was a fun exercise that made a big impression on the kids that attend these two schools. They could not believe that all these people have come to participate in this march.
Nely Ruiz
English 1A 9:00am - 10am
Andre Stephens
English 1A, 9-9:50
Martin Luther King, Jr. Event
On January 19, I went to the Martin Luther King. Jr. 17th Annual The Dream Lives On: Multicultural Peace Celebration and Rally at the ILWU Warehouse Hall in Oakland. The rally was sponsored by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Rally Committee, Brookfield Advisory Committee, East Bay Regional Park District, Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom Center and Congresswoman Barbara Lee.
Rev. Dr. Martha Taylor from the Allen Temple Baptist Church talked about this being a historic election with the President being African American and how the White House was built by slaves and now an African American president will live there.
April Chan read a statement from Congresswoman Lee who was in DC. Congresswoman Lee’s message was about the importance of human rights, that we have to honor the sacrifices of others, and freedom is not yet universal. Jacar Reese, a sophomore at a high school in Modesto, delivered Dr. King’s “I’ve Been to the Mountain Top” speech and got a standing ovation.
Keith Carson is an Alameda County Supervisor. He said Martin Luther King, Jr. was born Michael King. Five years later his father changed his name to Martin Luther King, Jr. This was something I didn’t know. Martin’s father was a minister and his grandfather on his mother’s side was a minister, so it is no surprise that he became a minister. Supervisor Carson compared Dr. King with Moses. Dr. King didn’t live to see the outcome of his movement for equality, and Moses watched his people get to the Promised Land but he didn’t make it. If we all do our part, we can make a positive impact.
Rev. Byron Williams is a columnist and pastor. He said it has been 40 years since Dr. King was killed and tomorrow Barack Obama will be sworn in as our 43rd president because Grover Cleveland was our 22nd and 24th president. This was a surprise to me because we’ve all been hearing that Barack would be the 44th president. King was unwilling to give up on America when the people had given up on themselves and we have to believe that his dream is our dream. We owe a lot to the people who fought and died for our rights.
There was a diverse audience at the rally with young and old and different races. The rally was good because it was very insightful. I came away with a commitment to be more active in my community by volunteering with organizations that help people in need. Today had a lot of meaning because we celebrated the birthday of a great man who worked hard for equality for all. He believed that you should be judged by the content of your character and not by the color of your skin. It is great that the day after this celebration Barack Obama will become our first African American President who was voted into office because of his character and I believe that he will bring about positive change
Gerrell Knox
Eng.1A 9-9:50
King event Response
This Martin Luther King Jr. Day is special for a great deal of people. Among the many people that celebrated today were three foot soldiers who stood beside and helped Dr. King through the struggle. Lula Joe Williams, Rev. Willie Bolden, and J.T Jhonson are just three of the SCLC members celebrating MLK Day in Atlanta at the Martin Luther King center.
"This is not a black holiday; it's a peoples' holiday," said Coretta Scott King after president Reagan signed the King holiday bill on Nov.2,1983.These three foot soldiers of the civil rights movement celebrate this MLK day on the eve of the first black presidents inauguration.Reaping the seeds that they helped sow, with pride they celebrate.
Lula Joe Williams grew up in montgomery and at 15 saw the injustice that was going on in her neighborhood so she decided to join the SCLC and become a freedom fighter. As a youngster Williams helped with the 'get out the vote campaign and now she's seeing a black man take the oath tomorrow.She recalls getting beat and jailed for just helping to register people! While starting to cry she says how overwhelming this all is.
Rev. Willie Bolden and fellow SCLC member and friend J.T Jhonson will be attending the inauguration tomorrow.Bolden with agrin stated he just wants to stand on that ground tomorrow.
All three of these civil rights soldiers say tomorrow will be bitter sweet. None of them got a special invitation to actually attend the inauguration. Personally, I think it's wrong that they were left out. I know everybody wants to be a part of history, but what about the living people who made this even possible? Eventhough they didn't get there special invites, they're all very happy on this once in a lifetime MLK day;it's the eve of the first black president of the United States. It doesn't get any better than this!
Gracie Bonds Staples/The Atlanta Journal-Constitution/www.ajc.com
Jennifer Gonzales
Eng 1A 9-950
My response to a Martin Luther King Celebration Event
Many joined on the day of Martin Luther King's Birthday. Many celebrated his accomplishments, everything he stood for and believed in. This has been an interesting time for us, since it is being celebrated together with our 44th president Barack Obamas inauguration. That alone shows how big of an impact Martin Luther King had on our nation, back then and still today.
There was an event on Sunday, January 18, 2009 called "In the Name of Love." at 7:30pm. It was their 7th annual Musical Tribute Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This particular event stood out to me because they expressed their gratitude and appreciation by using music. It featured many local and national artists and groups. I was also pleased with how they acknowledge with awards, individuals who have made a big impact on the community as well.
Many of the groups included Marcus Shelby's Jazz Orchestra, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Destiny Arts Youth Performance Co., Oakland Children's Community Choir and the Oaktown Jazz Workshops.
It was pleasing to know that so many local/natives came togehter to celebrate this special day. It also shows that there are numerous orginizations out there that support our children. It gives them hope and something to believe in since they are our future generation.
I am glad to see that so many people are afffected by Martin Luther King. No matter what age, race or gender, we can all come together to share one similarity, and that is our beliefs. Martin luther king believed this would be possible and it is.
Sorry Ms. Sabir but when I try to submit my response it is saying that all of my references HTML cannot be accepted, tag is not allowed. If you want I can show you in another way what my references are. I have about four website references.
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Carla Poindexter
Wanda Sabir
English 1A 9-10
20 January 2009
A Lesson in Brotherhood
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is known for a multitude of accomplishments. King is known for his “I Have A Dream Speech.” He is known for his leadership in nonviolent civil rights movement demonstrations. King is also known for his involvement in politics. But, personally I would say I remember King most for his superb example of brotherhood.
On Sunday January 18, 2009 Temple of Peace Missionary Baptist Church hosted its Men’s Annual Day. The theme for this years annual day was brotherhood. “For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to Silence the ignorance of foolish men.” (1 Peter 2
;15) This bible scripture was the first line of the responsive reading. The responsive reading is a way to set the tone for the theme or topic of the church service.
Assistant minister Reverend Kermit Dearman came before the congregation to share his thoughts on brotherhood. “Am I my brother’s keeper”? (Genesis 4:9) God himself asked Cain, “Where is your brother Able?” The point Dearman shared with the congregation is the answer, “Yes you are your brother’s keeper.” (Dearman) It is our duty as Christians to help our brother
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or sister in their time of need and uplift one another. After all, love is the key to a long lasting and prosperous brotherhood.
The highlight of the day was the sermon given by pastor, Reverend Don C. Sutton. Pastor Sutton spoke about effective leadership in our community. “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! (Psalm 133:1) Sutton expressed, King didn’t do what he did for himself.” (Sutton) King fought for equal treatment for you, me, and everyone else. “Let brotherly love continue.” (Hebrews 13:1) “Martin paved the way.” (Sutton)
In conclusion, Sutton proclaimed that currently our community is in dyer need of effective leadership. Sutton also proclaimed that King was one of our best examples of brotherhood yet to come. Following in his footsteps is president elect Barak Obama. “Tuesday will be a great day.” (Sutton)
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Works Cited
Bible Gateway
18 January 2009 www.biblegateway.com
Dearman, Kermit Rev. “Thoughts on Brotherhood”
Temple of Peace MBC
18 January 2009
Sutton, Don C. Rev. “He Ain’t Heavy He’s My Brother”
Temple of Peace MBC
18 January 2009
The Gideon International New Testament Bible 1985
Angela Sterling
English 1A 8-8:50
Response to a MLK Celebration
In San Antonio, Texas there was an extremely successful march in the honor of the great Martin Luther King Jr. An estimated 100,000 people participated of all backgrounds, young and old. Participants were excited because the march was the day before Barack Obama's inauguration which some called "the realization of King's dream".
I think it's interesting how many people were relating Obama's inauguration to Dr. King. However, with out Martin Luther King Jr's contribution to history, Obama might not have been able to run for president.
MLK Marches strike a personal note for me, as my grandmother who is no longer with us took me and my brother to one in San Fransisco when we were younger.
I find it beautiful that so many people can come together and take the time to honor such a great leader, who dedicated his time, blood, sweat, and tears to a selfless cause. He changed many people's lives for the better. He also paved the way for many other leaders to come. "He didn't just die to put a black face in a high place. He died so that every man and woman, boy and girl can be free." -Manuel Scott
Carla Poindexter
English 1A 9-10
This blog is in response to Nely Ruiz's blog on a MLK day event.
Marches are always a good demonstration. It shows that we have not forgotten what King taught us and showed us how to do. It is very interesting how America can honor different people in the same way. The march took place in the city of Berkeley, California. The march was from Thomas Jefferson Elementary school to Martin Luther King Jr. Middle school. Riuz mention that Jefferson owned slaves. Sometimes I wonder what we as Americans are really saying when we honor various "leaders" with buildings, statues, momuments and so on. Any how, I am glad to hear that the march had a peaceful participation and turn out.
Andrew Vincent
Prof. Sabir
English 1a
20 January 2009
MLK Day Celebration Assignment
Having been unable to attend an actual celebration this weekend, I’ve chosen to complete the alternate assignment and review an article. The article I’m reviewing, “Some say MLK Day more special this year”, by Leigh Jones, appeared in The Daily News, and was found through ha Google search for “MLK Day Celebration”. Jones describes a celebration that took place in Galveston on Saturday, January 17. People in Galveston are assigning special significance to this years MLK Day observance because of the milestone accomplishment of Barrack Obama in winning our nations presidency. After many positive comments by event attendees, she summarizes “This year, we’re celebrating two great men instead of one.”(Jones)
If asked to describe a polar opposite to the Bay Area, with all it’s diversity and liberal politics, I might consider Galveston Texas among the possible answers. No offense to any Galvestonians who may stumble across my response, I’m sure it’s really nice where you are. My point in relating this is to convey my gladness at finding this article, because the authors mirroring of my own feelings from a far off place like Galveston implies that this hopefulness is occurring at a national level right now. That’s why I chose to respond to this article, and I hope any of you that may wish to visit the link below enjoy it as much as I did.
The Galveston Daily News. Jones, Leigh, “Some say MLK Day more special this year” (http://galvestondailynews.com/story.lasso?ewcd=058e53d9f5750a41)
Hong Tang
English 1A M-TH 9- 9:50
Monday, January 19, 2009 is martin Luther King’s day. I’ve read many articles about it and seen events appearing in many places. I have to say, it’s a honor to those who read about Martin King because on Tuesday, January 20, 2009 America will make history. The dreams of Dr. Kings are becoming true. I wish to share this with him, with what he tried to accomplish in every way for human rights or equality and for the ability to step up not with only one race but for diversity. Everyone unites to celebrate this day to honor a man who brought hopes to everyone’s heart. I think it is amazing that we are witnessing history and being part of it each and every minutes are more than reality. However, even when everyone are said to be treated equally, segregation is still very strong.
Reference: “Livermore Tribune”
Nina Wooten
Eng 1A
8-9am
January 20, 2009
The Raleigh/ Wake Martin Luther King Celebration Committee organized an all day event to celebrate the 80th birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King for the 28th consecutive year. This committee was organized to “reflect upon the past while seeking hope, determination and an opportunity to act upon the promise of the future.” The Martin Luther King Holiday Celebration is a family orientated, multi-racial all day event consisting of the 28th Annual Martin Luther King Triangle Interfaith Prayer Breakfast, followed by their 4th Annual Martin Luther King Community Day of Service and ended with the 28th Annual Martin Luther King Memorial March. The Committee announced events celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. King.
I think it’s a wonderful that’s the Wake Martin Luther King Celebration Committee has organized an all day event in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King. Dr. King marched and protested for racial equality. I am proud to say that we have come much closer to reaching Dr. Kings dream. I think he would be very proud to celebrate about having a black president. Through patience and mostly non-violent actions his dreams have come to reality hopefully giving King the accomplishment as an African American clergyman, activist and prominent leader in the American civil rights movement he searched for while he was alive.
I’m very proud of the younger generations and their involvement in celebrating Dr. King’s birthday. It really shows how important he was to us as a nation, community and individuals. It amazes me that a man that has past more than 4 decades ago still has a powerful impact on our nation.
"The 2009 Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration." MLK NATIONAL. 19 Jan. 2009.
Nina Wooten
Eng 1A
8-9am
January 20, 2009
The Raleigh/ Wake Martin Luther King Celebration Committee organized an all day event to celebrate the 80th birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King for the 28th consecutive year. This committee was organized to “reflect upon the past while seeking hope, determination and an opportunity to act upon the promise of the future.” The Martin Luther King Holiday Celebration is a family orientated, multi-racial all day event consisting of the 28th Annual Martin Luther King Triangle Interfaith Prayer Breakfast, followed by their 4th Annual Martin Luther King Community Day of Service and ended with the 28th Annual Martin Luther King Memorial March. The Committee announced events celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. King.
I think it’s a wonderful that’s the Wake Martin Luther King Celebration Committee has organized an all day event in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King. Dr. King marched and protested for racial equality. I am proud to say that we have come much closer to reaching Dr. Kings dream. I think he would be very proud to celebrate about having a black president. Through patience and mostly non-violent actions his dreams have come to reality hopefully giving King the accomplishment as an African American clergyman, activist and prominent leader in the American civil rights movement he searched for while he was alive.
I’m very proud of the younger generations and their involvement in celebrating Dr. King’s birthday. It really shows how important he was to us as a nation, community and individuals. It amazes me that a man that has past more than 4 decades ago still has a powerful impact on our nation.
"The 2009 Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration." MLK NATIONAL. 19 Jan. 2009.
Martin Luther King Day celebration
It was an honor to see another birthday for MLK, my mom share the same birthday. My family gave her a surprise birthday party; we had the usual cake ice, cream, gifts, and games. This year I wanted to do things a little different, I asked the guest to go around and say what they are thankful for many people said to be alive and history. When it came to my turn I responded “ to see as a young lady where and how far our people have come, the struggles that MLK went through being locked up, beat, threatened, your family in harms way every waking eye. He put his life on the line for everything that he believed in. To see that MLK dreams hopes aspirations everything he believe in came to pass is a blessing to wake up and witness each and everyday. I can not paint you a picture deep and beautiful enough so that you too can witness how our country can unite as one shades of all colors without the violence; it is a beautiful beginning of a changed world. To look over into the next day and see that we have a president that is biracial in the white house, lies that many haters said that would never come to pass. Like Obama said yes we can, and yes we did. I am proud to be who I am and to be apart of history.
English 1A
Tipton
Man Quach
Eng 1A
9-10
MLK Day Celebration
Since i was unable to attend in any of the MLK day celebration, i choose to do my respond on an article. This article that i'm reviewing, "Obama is ‘a dream come true’ for Brockton NAACP at Martin Luther King Jr. event" by Jessica Scarpati, appeared on Enterprisenews.com. This article was posted on Jan 17, 2009, it about the 23rd annual Marthin Luther King Jr. breakfast event thrown by Brockton Area NAACP. there was also a video that have interview with the attendees. In the video one of the attendee said that "every year we celebrate MLK Day the same as the other years, what make this year special is that this year we'll have our first African-American president". There also other being interviewed in the video, some say that with president Obama being elected is like MLK dream come true. I too think that from all those years in english class having to read MLK "I have a dream" over and over again all we study about is how Dr. King started the fight 40 years ago for his people freedom, to be treated equally with all the other Americans, and now our president is going to folow Dr. King's foot step to making our country a better place for everyone.
Enterprisenews.com. Scarpati,Jessica "Obama is 'a dream come true' for Brockton NAACP at Martin Luther King Jr. event"(http://www.enterprisenews.com/archive/x127109257/Obama-is-a-dream-come-true-for-Brockton-NAACP-at-Martin-Luther-King-Jr-event)
Bridgette Copprue
Eng 1A 9-10am
Jan 20, 2009
My "Martin Luther King Day Celebration"
As life would have it, this year I was unable to physically attend a march or celebration event outside of my home for Dr. King, so I had a trip down memory lane celebration in my home with pictures of his home in Atlanta, his burial and the museum of the replicas of him marching along with other protesters. Yeah, that's right! It is so amazing to see and stand beside life size figures of Dr. Abernathy and other marchers/protesters. As I think back to the church, Ebenezer Baptist, sitting on the pews of the original church (we could not go upstairs because they were doing some work to it).
Upon entering the museum, you hear Dr. King's speeches, "I Have A Dream..., Birmingham Letter", ecetera. Television viewings of the different protest marches where the southern police attacked the marchers with their dogs and water hoses. Seemed like you were there, actually there. Bails of cotton, just a whole lot of history in what was going on in the 60's. I was born then, about the age of Dr. King's oldest child; but did not have to deal with any such thing as what they went through.
I also rummaged through my books that I purchased while in Atlanta and came across one Dr. King's favorite author, Henry David Thoreau, "Civil Disobedience and Other Essays" UNABRIDGED. This book of essays began talk about his opposition to the Mexican War (1846-1848) (Thoreau), having not read all of the essays, I can see how Dr. King associated himself with Mr. Thoreau in believing that the simple things in life were given to all mankind, not just a mite few. Another book of interest was "Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement" by the history magazine for young people (Cobblestone).
In going through the archives of my mind; I feel that Dr. King's message in the early 50's and 60's was one in the same as if he were here today, and that would be that no man can stand alone; he must be led and taught of Jesus. Consider our President Obama, a prime example, people, this man is just that "a Man" chosen by God.(Judges 4:6)KJV-(King James Version)He is not a "god" and neither or we to worship him as one. Try and help our brother, our neighbor, whenever we can, and watch it(world) will change for the better.
If I could post some of the pictures from the books, I would; but that's illegal, I think. Anyway, this trip down memory lane of Dr. King's Celebration Day has been enjoying and exhausting! Remember, it felt like I was actually there....
College of Alameda
Tutorial & Assessment Center Online Handouts-Paraphrasing,4/20/2005
Thoreau, Henry David. Civil Disobedience and Other Essays unabridged. Dover:Thrift:Editions
the history magazine for young people:Cobblestone
February 1994 Volume Fifteen, Number Two
Bridgette Copprue
Eng 1A 9-10am
Jan 21, 2009
Response to MLK Celebration
While reading other classmates' essays, I wished that I could have attended a march even if it wasn't but for a block(that's all I can walk and not get too tired)! I can remember when I could dance and walk for some distance and even when we had our celebrations at Lake Merritt for Dr. King and Juneteenth Days! Young people, it's time for you to pick up the paton and pass it off to your children (without the violence). That is what Dr. King was saying and he still is...
Jose Vasquez
Professor Wanda Sabir
English 1A 9:00-10:00
January 20 2009
Martin Luther King Day
On the day of Martin Luther King I had the opportunity to attend an event in Albany honoring Martin Luther King. I went to the event with some other students that participate in a program that helps younger kids become more involved in their communities. The event was not all about Martin Luther King there was much talk about president elect Barack Obama. Many people were talking about how Obama was a reference to Martin Luther King dream. King had a dream that one day everyone no matter the color of their skin should have an opportunity to reach their dreams.
Many people at the event had Barack Obama shirts and hats and also Martin Luther King shirts. The people that attended the event were people that wanted to see change in the United States. Martin Luther King would have been very proud if he was alive today due to the fact that people elected a black president. In the 1960’s when Martin Luther King was fighting for equal rights he would have been happy to see a black president, but Barack Obama would never have had a chance if it were not for Martin Luther king.
The event was really weird because at first I believed that it was going to be boring and the only reason I went was because I had to go since I am involved with a program that participate in it. After observing for a couple of minutes I change my perspective. I gave much thought to Martin Luther King and his bravery; he was a man with big heart and much passion. If it was not for Martin Luther King the United States would not be the same.
Paola Garcia
English 1A 8:00am-8:50am
Response to Martin Luther King’s Day
As a non American, I had to do a great deal of research on this day to understand the importance of it. The first thing I did was asking my neighbors about it. As Professor Wanda said in class, not a lot of people new much about it, or understood its meaning. After researching on the internet and books, I found out that this day was not celebrated in all 51 states as a federal day until 2000; that is 17 years after President Ronald Regan signed the holiday law in 1983. I was shocked.
I went in to the streets of Oakland and walk with some of the people celebrating this day, the atmosphere was amazing. If it is fair to say the King was more alive than ever. But I was wondering why. All that energy was different from the MLK holydays I witness years before. As well, I watch a documentary on TV about the Kings life, all the struggle he went thru and all his amazing speeches. His voice was so powerful and his words so passionate it almost made me cried. There I understood why people were so full of energy and optimistic attitude. One day after the King’s day, the first African American president was going to step on the white house. I don’t know if that is a coincidence or is a gift from life, but I am sure the King is dancing and screaming full of joy. As I read in one of the articles that were published in the NY Times for this event, the King deserves front row seats.
He spent his life fighting for the African American people, for their rights of equality. He is one of the giants of the new world society. During his time, it was illegal to have mixed marriages, on a bus a black person had to give his seat to a white person, and signs of no-color people hang on the streets. His contribution put and end to all this. His legacy and teachings are very powerful and today we have the first African American president. This is a great day for him.
It was an honor to be here on this great week. Change has come, and it started more than 40 years ago with the King. In his own words: Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase. He had faith in us, the new generations.
REFERENCES:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/18/nyregion/long-island/18Rmlk.html?ref=westchester
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/20/opinion/20herbert.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=martin%20luther%20king%20celebration%20&st=cse
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King,_Jr._Day
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/martin_luther_king_jr.html
Cecilia Martinez
9-9:50AM
Today, as I help prepare for my parent's Barak Obama's celebration tomorrow, I begin to think; why am I not at school today? Everyone knows that when being the oldest in a family, you get all the responsibility: cleaning, picking up, and cooking. However, if you have schoolwork, you know that you do not have to do anything but do your work. However, today, seeing as how I have no should why am I home? That's what I remember that even thought we celebrated in class Dr. King's birthday; we honor him and his message of hope and justice today.
With everything that need to get done before the big day tomorrow, I still can't believe that Barak Obama will be our president tomorrow, I had no time to leave the house for hours to listen to poems or be at something special. Realizing that I needed to do something for class I decided to look at my movie selection on my computer. Lucky, I've worked with many great youth development programs and have a bit of documentaries, student made and youth driven, that honor Dr. King. I play as many as I can find with my little cousin, Deco. He has a lot of questions. Which brings me to the fact that even thought I know what Dr. King was preaching; that injustices does not simply end with a hand-shake and hug, you have to do more, create equal opportunities and rights; I do not know a lot about the man he was himself.
The short (video maker lingo for short documentary) that stood out to me the most was "The Apollos." It gave the history of the 7 students from Oakland Tech that in 1977 decided that they would make Dr. King's birthday a holiday for us all to remember his legacy and message.
I have usually gone about my Martin Luther Day weekends with family, but never truly reflecting on why the day in America we observe. This time it as different, because tomorrow Dr. King's dream will comes true. Tomorrow we will have our African American president. I have never been so excited for a three day weekend to end.
Munkhjin Munkhbaatar
English 1A
9-10
Martin Luther King Day celebration.
I never attended any of Martin Luther King day celebration. This year I wanted to attend it in Oakland but I had work and there weren't anyone who could cover for me. Because everyone else wanted to celebrate MLK day.Once Dr. King said "I have a dream" and now his dream became true.He started to fight for his people 40 years ago and finally his fight has shown its significance. He gave them hope and faith that every man is created equal. This year is a special year for the African- American society. America has made their choice to have their first African- American President. America has made a history and a first African-American reached to the highest seat.As the President Barack Obama said "Yes we will" i hope he will make big changes in the United States.
Reference: http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/article/mlk_day_celebrated_with_special_meaning/19038/
Monday, January 19th, 2009 was Martin Luther King Day. Dr. King's 80th birthday was celebrated along with President Obama's inauguration the next day. This was a very important day for many Americans. As King had dreamed decades ago, equality has finally stepped up to the point where all race were equal. In many major cities, groups gathered to honor Dr. King for fighting for taking action and starting the civil rights movement and to celebrate a change in American history for the first time the next day. Equality will be accomplished and on Tuesday, January 20th, 2009, as President Obama becomes the 44th president of the United States of America and the first non-white president in American history. I’m happy to see how Americans had evolved and finally accept equally of different race.
In Oakland, hundreds gather at the ILWU Warehouse Hall for the Martin Luther King Jr. 17th Annual Observance. In other parts of Oakland, volunteers joined to help beautify Oakland by picking up trash, cleaning the shorelines, and planting. Compared to previous years, the numbers of volunteers had tripled. Many felt the upswing mood to contribute and volunteer on this day because the inauguration has added inspiration to people. I attend the shoreline cleanup by Hegenberger Rd. and the area was filled with volunteers. In the past years, people didn’t look so excited about volunteering; but this time people seemed happy and seem to be enjoying the experience of volunteer work. I was surprised by how many people showed up and I was happy that this day brought people together to do something meaningful to the community we live in.
Reference: “Oakland Tribune”, MLK DAY EVENT
- Joyce Cho - Eng1A – 0900-0950 -
Today Thursday January 15 2009 is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday. People all over the world celebrated this day. Today many people gathered on the Steps of Oakland’s City Hall in the Frank Ogawa Plaza to listen to Mayor Ronald V. Dellums Speak along with other speakers. Martin Luther King paved the way for many people in this country to receive the rights that every American citizen deserves. Today was deemed a holiday in honor of MLK and his accomplishments. I attended briefly the events that were going on in Oakland. I felt a deep sense of community when I was out there. Everyone was coming together to celebrate this man and his accomplishments. There was no hatred or racism at this event only unity and love for one and other. People all over the world marched and demonstrated. Marching and demonstrating are good ways to voice your opinions and beliefs freely and peacefully. Martin Luther King Jr. and his works paved the way in order for this to be possible.
Chris Wong
English 1a
9:000-10:00
Today Monday January 19 2009 is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday. People all over the world celebrated this day. Today many people gathered on the Steps of Oakland’s City Hall in the Frank Ogawa Plaza to listen to Mayor Ronald V. Dellums Speak along with other speakers. Martin Luther King paved the way for many people in this country to receive the rights that every American citizen deserves. Today was deemed a holiday in honor of MLK and his accomplishments. I attended briefly the events that were going on in Oakland. I felt a deep sense of community when I was out there. Everyone was coming together to celebrate this man and his accomplishments. There was no hatred or racism at this event only unity and love for one and other. People all over the world marched and demonstrated. Marching and demonstrating are good ways to voice your opinions and beliefs freely and peacefully. Martin Luther King Jr. and his works paved the way in order for this to be possible.
Chris Wong
English 1a
9:000-10:00
Monday, January 19, I attended two events, one Bringing the Noise for MLK Jr. at the Herbst Theatre in San Francisco. It was a Youth Speaks program. Afterwards I attended a concert at Yoshi's in San Francisco. Sunday, January 18,
I attended a musical celebration of MLK Jr. at the Scottish Rite Auditorium in Oakland.
I interviewed artists from all these events on my radio show Friday, January 16, 6-7:30 AM and 8-10 AM. You can listen at http://www.wandaspicks.asmnetwork.org
I wrote about what I did on MLK Jr.'s birthday, 1/15, on my blog: http://wandasabir.blogspot.com
I attended a concert at UC Berkeley. It was a celebration of Blue Note Records 70th Anniversary.
on January 20 th 2009, college of alameda put together a celebration to acknowledge martin luther kings contribution to what is history in the making. "A black president."
To have went through all those trials and tribulations that martin luther king endured for his people, he was a mighty strong and motivating man. as martin luther king had a dream- that we all would come to be judged- not by the color of our skin but rather by the content of our character.
and as years went by, all these different black leaders, we come to an another important milestone on the way to king's vision. and for this, there was a celebration. and once everyone watched the inauguration, there was a discussion of the events that took place and the significance of this day. what a great feeling to have seen this day.
jameisha harris
engl. 1a 8-9a.m
Carmen Truong
Professor Sabir
English 1A
9-9:50
January 19, 2009 was Martin Luther King Jr. day. We celebrate this remarkable day because of his success of gaining justice for the people. We will always remember his honor to fight for civil rights. Martin Luther King was dedicated his life to fight for what he believe in. Although he has faced through the rough moments, nonetheless, social change has been made regarding to his effort and reinforcements. He has transform America. This year January 19th, more than 12,100 service projects took place across the country, more than double last year. This was the largest King Day of service ever. It is our pleasure to honor Martin Luther’s king day. It’s the day where we can gather up, to beloved the individuals.
On January 19, 2009 Our President elect Barack Obama announced that Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday would be a day of service devoted to our community. I did not know of any celebrations going on in my area but did notice the children in the neighborhood were planting trees up and down Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard .Every since President Elect Barack Obama’s run for the presidency regular citizens have actually taken a stand on the practices of this “New era of responsibility” this was the change we as a nation so much needed. In my personal opinion I will for the sake of myself and my children strive for perfection I will be that difference if it will make the world just a little bit better.
Andre Stephens
English 1A – 9:00 – 9:50
My response is to Rebecca Evans. I think that it was good that the event centered on how King would have dealt with the Oscar Grant situation. It is also good that they remembered King and how he would affect those who couldn’t see his work in action. I also echo the same sentiment as far as it being a pleasure and honor to live in a country that had great leaders such as the later great MLK. In my eyes, he definitely had a powerful impact on this country. Man, I definitely think that Mr. Grant getting killed was totally wrong. I totally agree that if this was racially based, it would be a shame and an utter disappointment. I’m in absolute agreement that it was good that they had a peaceful protest because that is what Dr. King would do. Henceforth, I think that it is important that everyone should do something to honor King either through celebrations or elsewhere.
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