Week of Unity and Justice
National Louis University is preparing to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy with its annual Week of Unity and Justice, transforming what began as individual celebrations into a week-long commemoration that reflects the diverse ways our community connects with Dr. King's message.
Previous years have created lasting impressions on the NLU community. One standout tradition is the annual gospel performance, which brings the energy and spirit of the Civil Rights Movement into university halls. "I tell our gospel artists, 'Do not hold back. Treat them like your Sunday morning crowd,'" Baltimore recalls. "The live music flowing through our hallways wakes people up differently."
Another touching tradition began when the university started offering framed MLK quotes for community members to take home. "I go into offices around the university all the time, and I'll see these quotes sitting there," Baltimore shares. "That's exactly what I wanted to accomplish."
This year's Week of Unity and Justice promises to be particularly dynamic, featuring an impressive lineup of speakers and events. The week kicks off with five dynamic speakers from different faith traditions, including one of Chicago's youngest rabbis and Sister Linda, a nun in her mid-30s. Their youth and passion are expected to resonate strongly with NLU's student population.
The week's programming includes a Know Your Rights workshop providing crucial information for undocumented students and their allies, the return of acclaimed gospel artist Anisha Miller, community service opportunities including the distribution of warming kits for the homeless, and a special unity luncheon bringing the community together.
The Week of Unity and Justice is truly a university-wide endeavor, bringing together multiple departments and organizations including the Office of Diversity, THRIVE Center, Veteran Resource Center, Career Services, and the DEI Council. This collaboration exemplifies the week's fundamental message of unity and collective action.
"We say it's about Dr. King, but we really are talking about ourselves," reflects Baltimore. "This week is about showing up and practicing being the community we aspire to be."
Students can expect to be challenged, to experience joy, and to witness the power of community coming together in unexpected ways. At its core, the week centers on peace and unity – creating a space where everyone can literally and figuratively be at the same table, embodying Dr. King's vision of a beloved community.
The Week of Unity and Justice stands as a testament to NLU's commitment to fostering an inclusive community while honoring Dr. King's enduring legacy of peace, justice, and transformative change.
MLK Week of Unity and Justice Schedule of Events
- Monday, January 13, 12 pm - 1 pm. Day of Unity [Zoom only] - 5 amazing presenters from 5 different faith traditions share insights, hope, and meaningful reflections on the future and the legacy of Dr. King. Join us on Zoom for a musical performance and presentations that will inspire you. Zoom link will be shared with all registered participants via email.
- Tuesday, January 14—Know Your Rights Workshop for Students 12 pm—1 pm [Zoom or in-person]—This lunchtime presentation will inform the community about supporting our Undocumented students and how to engage law enforcement. Zoom link will be shared with all registered participants via e-mail
- Wed, January 15th-- MLK Day of Service - 9 am - 12 pm and 5 pm - 6 pm (Chicago campus only) Join us for the Morning Service project at the Chicago Food Depository beginning at 8 AM, or meet us at 5 PM as we handout Winter Warming Kits in the Loop to those in need. For both events, you will meet at the Veterans Resource Center in Room 5044 in the I22 S Michigan building. You can sign up for one service project or both. If registered, you will be contacted with more details via email. This is an In person event only.
- Wednesday, January 15th -- MLK Day of Service (Florida Campus) NLU Florida Encourages students, faculty, and staff to sign up for one or more of the below volunteer opportunities with Feeding Tampa Bay, our local umbrella organization that provides food for initial intervention and relies on resources beyond food to create lasting change. Find the Feeding Tampa Bay registration links below this schedule of events.
- Wednesday, January 15th -- I have a Dream Vision Board Party. 12 pm -1 pm.- Unity Commons (Chicago campus) Student Lounge (Wheeling campus) Have lunch with us while we create our vision for the future. We are creating Vision Boards inspired by the words of Dr. King. This creative event is open to everyone and is in person only
- Thursday, January 16 -- Welcome Week/MLK Luncheon 11:45 am - 1 pm. 2nd Floor Atrium/122 S. Michigan. [Zoom or in-person] - This signature luncheon unites all of NLU in celebration of the Legacy of Dr. King with Gospel Music performances, Poetry, A special Keynote address, and amazing food. Be a part of the celebration and register below. Space is limited.
- Monday, January 20 -- City of Tampa MLK Day Parade 12:00 pm. Cuscaden Park - N. 15th St. & 21st Ave., Tampa, FL Join out walking team for a special NLU tradition--the City of Tampa's MLK Parade! The grand marshal for 2025 is the honorable Lesley "Les" Miller, former chair of Hillsboro County Board of County Commissioners. We also will be treated to a flyover from our friends at MacDill AFB at the start of the parade. Please note that parade participants must submit a waiver and release of liability form prior to participation, which will be sent via email upon RSVP. RSVP HERE
RSVP FOR ALL CHICAGO EVENTS HERE
RSVP for NLU Florida Service Day Events Below
Warehouse Sorting - Choose from 9:00 am - 11:30 am and/or 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm (EST) at Causeway Center, 3624 Causeway Blvd, Tampa, FL 33619 RSVP HERE
Food pantry stocking at Feeding Pinellas - 10:20 am - 12:30 pm (EST) at Feeding Pinellas, 6330 54th Ave N. Petersburg, FL 33709 RSVP HERE
The Market - Feeding Tampa Bay - 5:00 - 8:00 pm (EST) at Causeway Center, 3624 Causeway Blvd, Tampa, FL 33619 RSVP HERE
