The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” Today, his legacy is a constant reminder of how the quest for justice requires great patience and dogged determination in the face of equally determined discriminatory practices within our social and political institutions. 
With a new year underway, the University of Utah prepares to host a series of events for MLK Week 2025 aimed at engaging the community by issuing a call to action in the ongoing effort to create a more just society for everyone.
Themed “Learning to Action, Movement Towards Just Communities,” programming for MLK Week 2025 implores members of the U community to make a concerted effort to strive for social justice through participation and continued dedication to raising awareness of inequities and creating fairness wherever is possible.
The week’s festivities kick off on Saturday, January 18, 2025, with the MLK Day of Service.
The 41st annual MLK March and Rally is scheduled for January 20. The rally begins at 2:30 p.m. and will feature various local dignitaries, including Utah state Rep. Sandra Hollins (D-Salt Lake), Rev. France A. Davis, Pastor Emeritus Calvary Baptist Church and Utah Black Chamber CEO Dr. Sydni Shorter.
This year’s march will step off at 3:10 p.m. following a new route. The march will begin at Kingsbury Hall on President’s Circle going approximately one-half mile to the University Museum of Fine Arts at 410 Central Campus Drive. Both events will be broadcast live on ABC4 Utah.
Additionally, numerous other events are scheduled throughout the week, including and the Visionary Voices Keynote & Social and the Utah Women’s MLK basketball game on January 22, two music events, an interfaith panel and community thrift market — all on Thursday, January 23.
The week’s activities culminate on January 24 with a panel discussion at the Hinckley Institute of Politics. All events are open to the public.
“Dr. King’s legacy reminds us of his unwavering commitment to equality, nonviolence, and community empowerment. Even today, it continues to inspire us to build inclusive communities,” said LeiLoni McLaughlin, Director, Student Services, Student Development & Community. “When we lead with education, openness, and understanding, diverse communities can unite in collective action, forging meaningful connections that strengthen our society as a whole.”
“Learning is the starting point of justice and action is the vehicle that gets us to the true meaning of justice and equity which provides equal resources and treatment for all,” she added.