Here’s what’s planned in Akron for MLK Day ’24
The Power Love Justice WeekendAkron Committee is organizing discussions, speakers and community action Friday to Monday to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
This weekend-long celebration is not only a tribute to King but a call to action.
The weekend of events kicks off Friday with employers across Akron participating in conversation topics facilitated by the Martin Luther King Jr. Power Love Justice Committee.
Discussion topics include mental health/trauma, youth violence intervention, and deaths of despair. Each business will choose a time slot for these discussions to take place at their respective locations. Registration is required on Eventbrite by searching “Corporate Crucial Conversations.”
The Change Makers Symposium: Igniting a Community for Transformation will take place 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the University of Akron’s John Hower Taber Student Union Gardner Theater. Registration and breakfast start at 8 a.m.
Participants will address intersectional issues that impact Black and brown communities. Keynote speaker Dr. Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz will share her expertise. There also will be a screening of the documentary “My Life.” Registration is required; RSVP at ggcpinc.org.
Participants also can hear gospel music Saturday at 7:30 p.m., featuring Pastor Smokie Norful and Erica Campbell as headliners. The concert also will feature Paula Depree and the United Voices Mass Choir. Purchase tickets for the concert in person at Goodyear Theater at 1201 E. Market St., Akron, Ohio 44305, or purchase directly on Ticketmaster by searching Erica Campbell and Smokie Norful.
The weekend of events will culminate with a Youth Day of Action 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday. Youth and volunteers will actively participate in community cleanup efforts at 11 selected sites across Akron, with more than 15 youth organizations participating from each side of town. Additionally, the youth will engage in conversations aimed at sparking meaningful dialogues and effecting positive change.
For details about Akron’s MLK weekend or to register for the events, visit https://www.ggcpinc.org.