The city of Aurora will honor the life and legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. during an event on Monday at East Aurora High School.
The 41st annual MLK Ceremony in Aurora, set to begin at 6 p.m. at the high school at 500 Tomcat Lane, will feature a keynote speech by Stacy Davis Gates, who is president of the Chicago Teachers Union and the Illinois Federation of Teachers, a former high school social studies teacher and a national advocate for educational equity, labor rights and racial justice, according to a news release from the city of Aurora.
Doors will open at 5 p.m., officials said.
The city news release said that Davis Gates, as a prominent labor leader and advocate, embodies King’s vision for economic and racial justice. Her leadership highlights the intersection of public education and civil rights, city officials said.
The evening will also include youth and adult performances along with the presentation of the Donna J. Williams MLK Service Awards and the MLK Youth Liberation Awards, officials said.
The city of Aurora has gathered to commemorate the birth and mission of Martin Luther King Jr. for over 40 years, according to the news release.
As part of the day’s events, three workshops centered on King’s legacy and philosophy will take place from 1 to 4 P.M. Monday at East Aurora High School, according to organizers.
The interactive workshops will focus on art, faith in action and anti-war activism, organizers said. The workshops are open to all ages and will be facilitated by local leaders.
More information about the events can be found on the city’s website at: www.aurora.il.us/Recreation-and-Amenities/Events/Special-Events/MLK-Day
