BMCC Celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Dear BMCC Community,

Today, we honor the life and legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As a Baptist minister and social activist, Dr. King led the U.S. civil rights movement from the mid-1950s until his assassination in 1968.

His work and leadership inspired – and continue to inspire – many people to fight against injustices in our country and our world. Dr. King believed in contributing to the needs of his community by leading peaceful protests in support of equality. Dr. King sought to raise the public consciousness of racism, to end racial discrimination and segregation against Blacks and all citizens in the United States.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?” Each year, people answer this question nationwide to celebrate and remember the legacy of Dr. King by coming together to serve their neighbors and communities.

On this day, I encourage everyone to reflect upon Dr King’s work, but I also urge you to find ways to contribute to your communities. At BMCC, there are opportunities to get involved in community service through student clubs and campus organizations that promote engagement through diversity and inclusion. A list of events can be found on the BMCC web calendar, which will led up to our college’s upcoming African Heritage Month in February.

Since October 2020, BMCC’s Race, Equity and Inclusion (REI) Steering Committee has worked diligently to build foundations for creating transformative and sustainable change at BMCC. The Steering Committee has met with members of the college community to share REI’s vision and seek collaborations. I encourage the entire BMCC community to visit the REI web pages for a detailed listing of the membership, including representation from students, staff, and faculty, the vision of REI, and the charges and focus of REI subcommittees for the coming year. While there is great work to be done, the REI Steering Committee, with the leadership of co-chairs Shenique Davis, Odelia Levy and Pedro Perez, counts on the BMCC community to help lift our college community in the struggle for social justice, equity, and inclusion.

There are also many resources available to learn about Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy and his work. Including:

Community service is a life-changing experience for everyone. I encourage you to find a network of connections in your community. Helping others can put you in touch with neighbors, mentors, and potential employers. Community service provides you with the opportunity to learn – and practice – social and developmental skills that can be used every day.

A critical component of BMCC’s mission is “to increase degree completion, successful transfer, career achievement and service and leadership within our community, New York City, and beyond.” Let’s honor Dr. King by carrying on his work and giving back to our community.

Continue to stay safe and healthy. Get vaccinated and boostered, and mask up!

Sincerely,

Anthony E. Munroe signature

Anthony E. Munroe
President, Borough of Manhattan Community College