Each year on MLK day Grier holds an event to appreciate and understand the impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Students learn why King is considered one of the most influential pioneers of the Civil Rights Movement.
Grier students and faculty enjoyed a performance by a group of three musicians who celebrate King’s life with performances across Pennsylvania. The performance consisted of musical pieces and footage from the Civil Rights Movement.
The show was put on by vocalists, Nathan Harmon and Elle Morris, and producer Joseph Patterson. Patterson narrated the historical aspect of the show, which combined beautifully with the duets by Harmon and Morris. In response to a question about what the group’s goal is, Patterson replied that their purpose is to “reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and for people to join in ensuring two things: justice and fairness.”
The presence of eloquent differences in tones of the voices represent the many figures that contributed to the cause of justice. Alongside King, the show recognized the work of Malcom X, Rosa Parks, and Ruby Bridges. Additionally, Patterson highlighted MLK’s non-violent approach to protest. He compared King’s approach to that of Ghandi, an activist who led a successful peaceful resistance, which gained India independence from Britain.
Music is a peaceful force for many people, making it a perfect instrument to use to share King’s inspirational story. “[It is] wonderful to shed and uplift the story through music and visual aids,” said Harmon.
A performance such as this, in contrast to a lesson in school, may be more beneficial and authentic to students. “It’s always a great practice to reflect on the movement to know why you are here and what you can stand up for today,” said Morris. This message is important to students: everyone can make a difference regardless of age, race, or gender.
Seniors Carrie Hoag and Rayna Qu both agreed that their favorite part of the show was the singing. “The most interesting part of the performance was seeing how the crowd interacted with the performers,” said Hoag. “We were all very engaged in the celebration of MLK’s life, and it was nice hearing all the conversations that continued throughout the rest of the day.”
This performance is beloved by students, who clap along to the songs, and sing with the performers. “The jazz singers change our status from the listeners to the participants by encouraging us to clap with them,” said Qu. “This adds much fun to the experience”. Students certainly had a lot of fun at the performance, as evident through their smiles throughout.
When asked how to remember the legacy of King beyond the performance, Hoag said, “Other than a speech, a way I think we could commemorate MLK day is service.” She believes it’s powerful to see a community following the example of King, and helping others.
Qu responded to the same question, saying, “We can do workshops. The school can also hold a competition of making the best collage to commemorate MLK, and show students’ works on the bulletin board in hallways.”
Both girls agreed that if MLK was alive today they would want to talk to him. Hoag would ask him for advice on how he gained support for his cause. Qu said that she would personally thank him if she could. She imagines herself saying, “Even though you knew the risk of speaking out for justice, you still do. So, we appreciate your bravery. Because of your efforts, the dream of countless people has come true. Thank you.”
History can be a list of information or something meaningful that a person applies to their life. Understanding the inequality littered throughout history and the work done to improve society is important because an event must be understood, so that it will not happen again. We hope that all students will take inspiration from this event and make their own world better so as to follow in King’s footsteps.
