Personal Narratives Power Celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.

The theme of “personal narrative” was front and center at the Upper School’s annual celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, as students and faculty used their voices and experiences to highlight social issues. 

The half-day event took place on Thursday, January 17, beginning with three hours of performances in the Claudia Boettcher Theatre. Mediums included spoken word, dance, video and more, which focused on issues ranging from racial bias and intersectionality to prison reform and the #MeToo movement. Students and faculty then gathered in small groups for break-out sessions across campus to discuss topics such as “Problems in the American Justice System,” “Environmental Advocacy,” “Understanding Intersectionality,” and a range of other issues.

The annual celebration is an opportunity for the Upper School community to discuss current social justice issues and to celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the many others who brought about change during the American Civil Rights Movement. Karen Brown, Director of Equity and Inclusion, who organized the event alongside students and faculty, noted that the celebration "was a collaborative effort and I am so proud of all who made this event a success. The spirit and energy that was put into the event by all embodies what Masters represents and I am grateful to be part of such a wonderful school community."

Brown also noted that the break-out sessions, which were new this year, were met with positive feedback. "I was happy to hear that people enjoyed [them], allowing them to unpack the subject matter from the morning’s presentations, via face-to-face dialogue." 


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