Elizabethtown College is proud to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through the 2025 “Beloved Community Collective,” a series of events and workshops dedicated to celebrating his vision of a just and peaceful future.
From Jan. 20 to 30, the campus community is invited to participate in discussions and activities designed to foster a healthy and inclusive culture, self-love, and meaningful relationship building.
The “Beloved Community Collective” draws inspiration from Dr. King’s 1956 speech following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to desegregate Montgomery buses. In his words, “The end is reconciliation; the end is redemption; the end is the creation of the Beloved Community. It is this type of spirit and this type of love that can transform opponents into friends… It is this love which will bring about miracles in the hearts of men.”
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – Monday, Jan. 20, 2025
Etown encourages students to get involved in their community and take positive action, to carry on Dr. King’s legacy of social justice and equity, and to renew their commitment by giving back to the community. On Monday, Jan. 20, and the days surrounding, we invite you to support those who are food insecure, clean up a public area, or mentor a young person.
37th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast – “Unity in Diversity: Our Single Garment of Destiny” | Monday, Jan. 20 at 7 a.m. | Millersville University, Student Memorial Center
Pay tribute to the enduring legacy of Dr. King at the 37th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast. This year’s theme, “Unity in Diversity: Our Single Garment of Destiny,” inspired by Dr. King’s Nobel Prize lecture, calls for a reflection on the power of diversity and the collective strength it brings. Featuring keynote speaker Ijeoma Oluo, vibrant performances, inspiring youth writing, and community awards, this event offers a moment to unite in fellowship and reflection. Tickets are available for purchase to attend the event in person or through a livestream.
National Day of Racial Healing – Define Your Role in Community Change | Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 5 p.m. | McCormick Classroom, High Library
Join us for a commUNITY group circle conversation focused on addressing our role in movement work. This event will guide participants through a reflective journey, using Deepa Iyer’s framework from the Building Movement Project to explore personal strengths, areas of growth, and the roles we can play in making a positive impact.
Through this interactive session, we aim to deepen our understanding of our contributions, analyze our privileges, and consider ways to expand our impact. The group circle discussion will allow everyone to share their thoughts, reflect on their roles, and brainstorm strategies for community activation and leadership at Etown. BluePrint: Well-Being & Connectedness
Revolutionary Rest as Resistance in Activism with Rev. Amy Shorner-Johnson | Thursday, Jan. 23 at 4 p.m. | McCormick Classroom, High Library
This workshop will first examine the activist cycle. Many times, activists are passionate and engaged, but then burn out, feel alone or disenfranchised, and check out. None of these outcomes from over-activism move concerns forward, but they are what the power wants you to feel. How do we resist power’s desire to drain, stay engaged, and care for ourselves in meaningful, nourishing ways? BluePrint: Well-Being & Connectedness
Write a Lament | Friday, Jan. 24 at noon | Mosaic House
Join us in getting to our Elsa bag as we “Let It Go.” Write it down and let it all go – at least, what you can. But what about the things we can’t let go of? Join student leaders and Counseling Services for a group session on self-regulation, where you’ll explore how to express struggles and emotions through writing. Bring your lunch and meet us at the Mosaic House for reflection, support, and release. BluePrint: Well-Being & Connectedness
Mosaic Unbound | Monday, Jan. 27 at 5 p.m. | McCormick Classroom, High Library
The High Library and the Office of Civil Rights, Opportunity, and Access host a monthly discussion regarding literature, art, or music. Facilitated by Mosaic Scholars, this discussion aims to further explore subjects relating to diversity, equity, accessibility, and justice. Join Jonah Pertet ’28 and Zuri Harris ’28 in considering six speeches that honor the Legacy of Dr. King. BluePrint: Equity & Diversity