Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than a day off school or a day home from work — it’s an opportunity to reflect on, learn about and celebrate the legacy of one of the most influential civil rights leaders in history. Many organizations offer free opportunities for community members to explore King’s legacy. A few events are listed below, but we encourage you to see what else is out there, because this rundown only scratches the surface. All listed events will be held on Jan. 15.
‘Letter from the Birmingham Jail’
At Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbus, Indiana, from 6:30–8:30 p.m., Black Lives Matter of Columbus will host a panel discussion addressing King’s historic “Letter from the Birmingham Jail.” The panel will include women and men, ministers and activists, from different generations who will explore the letter through candid dialogue. Find more information at facebook.com/blacklivesmatterofcolumbus.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
Admission is free on MLK Day. Visitors can enjoy special performances and activities including the Griot Drum Ensemble, Freetown Village Singers, a theatrical performance of the story of Ruby Bridges and a performance by storyteller Portia Jackson. Learn more at childrensmuseum.org.
MLK Jr. Day of Service
Join the Indiana Civil Rights Commission from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Watkins Park, where volunteers will assist with various projects. Children over 10 are welcome. Find more information at IN.gov/MLKIHC, and register to volunteer at eventbrite.com.
Conner Prairie
Admission to Conner Prairie will be free. Student trainers will introduce audiences to methods for practicing non-violent protest. Young artists with Asante Children’s Theatre will share songs of freedom and hope. For a complete list of activities, visit connerprairie.org.
The Harmony Project
Enjoy a free performance from the Northwest Harmony Community Choir. The performance will also feature Januarie York and the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra. The show will be held in the Marian University Theater, 3200 Cold Spring Road. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. Learn more at flannerhouse.org.
Indiana Christian Leadership Conference
The Indiana Christian Leadership Conference will host a celebration at St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church, 1651 Dr. Andrew J. Brown Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46202. The event includes a 10 a.m. interfaith panel discussion followed by a program at 11 a.m. with a mass choir and E. G. Shields Jr. of the National Baptist Convention as keynote speaker. This event is open to the public and free to attend.
Indiana Historical Society
In celebration of King’s life and legacy, enjoy programs, service activities and free admission to the Indiana Experience at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center. Learn more at indianahistory.org/events.
Indy Parks
Indy Parks will celebrate at more than 20 of their facilities, ranging from free park admission at Eagle Creek Park, to movie screenings, civil rights discussions, presentations and more. All MLK Day events are free and open to the public. A full schedule will be posted at indy.gov/parks.
MLK Day: Take A Stand Indy
We LIVE Inc. and the Warren Central Athletic Department will host this event to take a stand against violence. This free event will feature local celebs, giveaways and more. The event runs 12–2 p.m. at Warren Central PAC Center, 9500 E. 16th St. Enter at door 27.
White River State Park
White River State Park will offer free admission with the donation of a canned good at the NCAA Hall of Champions, Indianapolis Zoo, IMAX Theater, Indiana State Museum and the Eiteljorg Museum. Find more details at whiteriverstatepark.org.
Admission is free on MLK Day at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
ann schertz
