Brittany Maher, Editor in Chief
Highly revered Civil Rights activist, author and scholar Dr. Angela Davis will be the keynote speaker Jan. 18 at this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Observance.
The event will take place at 6pm in the Bailey Performance Center hosted by the African-American Student Alliance and the 2015 Black History Committee.
Davis worked as a distinguished professor at the University of California, Santa Cruz for 15 years, teaching the History of Consciousness and worked as director of the university’s Feminist Studies program. She is the author of nine books – many of which highlight her experiences as a political activist and issues related to race, gender and imprisonment. Davis will sign copies of her latest book, “The Meaning of Freedom and Other Difficult Dialogues,” after the event.
Senior, biology education major Julian Plowden is heavily involved in modern activists movements and is looking forward to the event.
“I think that having a not only an prominent activist, but also a woman speaking says a lot about KSU and it’s true embracing of equality,” Plowden said. “It’s significant because often there are a lot of unsung heroes who played pivotal roles in civil rights and they deserve the same platforms to inspire people. Angela, herself being prominent, doesn’t have that issue as much I believe but she’s also setting a great example for the movement by being visible and enlightening others.”
Plowden believes the event will be beneficial in inspiring a new generation of students to learn about civil rights.
“A lot of the younger generation aren’t as familiar with civil rights actions and even though they’re passionate, the wisdom and teachings of the elders in invaluable at a time like this.” Plowden said. “Overall I’m elated to finally start bridging the gap of knowledge. I recently met with Bernice King, Dr. King’s daughter and also some founding members of SNCC who worked alongside Dr. King and the best advice I ever got was from their mouths. To me, connecting with these individuals makes a better future seem even more possible in the wake of the current century.”
The event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 4:30 pm.
