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Schedule of Events

Each year, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration celebrated on Vanderbilt University’s campus is improved and becomes larger. The events of the day span from the early morning hours until the evening. With so many different types and styles of events taking place throughout the day, there is sure to be something for everyone. Those wishing to participate in everything are always in store for a wonderful experience.

Typical events for the day include:

The Nashville City Wide Freedom March

Joining with Tennessee State University and others, Vanderbilt takes part in a march that commemorates the life and legacy of Dr. King and the civil rights movement.

Nashville Freedom Ride Tour with Civil Rights Leader Kwame Lillard

A tour of significant sites in the civil rights movement in Nashville.

Teach-Ins and Lunchtime Symposium

Faculty and students will host stimulating discussions of their areas of study and the connections with Dr. King’s legacy.

Keynote Address

The main event of the day features musical performances, community essay contest readings and a keynote speaker to give thoughts on the legacy of Dr. King. Past keynote speakers have included NAACP Chairman Julian Bond and Congressman John Lewis. This year’s keynote speaker is social justice advocate, author and Vanderbilt alumnus Michelle Alexander. Professor Alexander’s lecture is from her book The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration In The Age Of Colorblindness.

Candlelight Vigil

The Vigil will offer an opportunity to reflect on the rich experiences of the day, to give thanks for the shining light Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. continues to have in our lives, and to look forward with hope as we light candles that illumine the darkness.

Schedule of Events