Ithaca College

During our MLK Celebration week, we will be taking the opportunity to explore the ideas of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through the intersections of activism and religion.

This year's theme, "Every Step Toward the Goal of Justice" is taken from a larger quote in Dr. King's book, Stride Toward Freedom. In this book, Dr. King writes,

Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable. Even a superficial look at history reveals that no social advance rolls in on the wheels of inevitability. Every step towards the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals. Without persistent effort, time itself becomes an ally of the insurgent and primitive forces of irrational emotionalism and social destruction. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action.

We encourage all those in our community to attend these events, regardless of religious affiliation. Join us for engaging conversations, community building, and ultimately a deeper understanding of social consciousness through interfaith practice at the times and locations listed below.

Thursday, January 24th

Stepping into Justice: Spirituality & Activism

Building on Dr. King’s legacy of faith-inspired activism panelists will explore spirituality, activism and social justice with community members who are on the frontlines of this work. The panel discussion will be moderated by Hierald Osorto, Director of Religious and Spiritual Life and panelist will include:

• Yasin Ahmed, Muslim Chaplain - Cornell University
• Rabbi Tziona Szajman, Jewish Chaplain and High Holidays Rabbi – Hillel at Ithaca College
• Laurie Konwinski, Deputy Director - Catholic Charities, Tompkins/Tioga
• Rev. Megan Castellan, Rector – St. John’s Episcopal Church

12 PM | Clark Lounge

Interfaith Community Dinner

Join us for an evening of good food and community with members of the Lansing community and Interfaith Communities of Greater Ithaca. Vegetarian, Kosher, and Halal options will be available. All are welcome.

5:30 PM || Muller Chapel

Friday, January 25th

Songs of Resistance

Come through Muller Chapel sit, meditate and listen to protest songs from the civil rights movement looping throughout the day in the Gathering Hall.

 8AM - 12PM, 1:30AM - 5PM | Muller Chapel

MLK Shabbat Service: Jewish Sabbath with Racial Justice Theme

People of all faiths and no faith are heartily invited to celebrate the Jewish Sabbath with a special musical service honoring the legacy of Dr. King.  Martin Luther King, Jr., week has become a time to honor and recommit to the values at the core of Dr. King's life and legacy, and connect them to Jewish values: courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility and service to others. Meal after service will be providing vegetarian options for all participants. 

6 PM Service, 7 PM Dinner | Muller Chapel

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations should contact Geselle Dominguez at gdominguez@ithaca.edu or (607) 274-7777. We ask that requests for accommodations be made as soon as possible.