2024 Valparaiso University MLK Day Celebration Featuring Dr. Morgan Medlock
Morgan Medlock, M.D., M.Div., MPH Editor of “Racism and Psychiatry: Contemporary Issues and Interventions” will be presenting the keynote address at the 2024 Valparaiso University MLK Day Celebration during the convocation from 1-2:30 p.m. on January 15.
For more than 30 years, Valparaiso University and the surrounding community have gathered to celebrate, commemorate, and encourage the continuance of the work begun by Martin Luther King Jr. Instead of taking the day off and contemplating our call in isolation, we choose to gather as a community to collectively reflect on the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and the work still left for us to do. Through thoughtful dialogue, focus sessions, and a compelling convocation, we allow King’s prophetic work to give life and guidance to fulfilling the dream today.
The convocation speaker, Morgan Medlock, M.D., M.Div., MPH, will guide us in understanding how we can actively contribute to realizing King’s dream through a commitment to continual healing and resilience. Join us in this transformative exploration as we collectively strive to make King’s dream a reality by fostering healing, resilience, and a renewed commitment to justice for all.
“As my sufferings mounted I soon realized that there were two ways in which I could respond to my situation — either to react with bitterness or seek to transform the suffering into a creative force. I decided to follow the latter course.” ― Martin Luther King Jr.
The theme chosen for the 2024 MLK Day Celebration, “Realizing the Dream Through Healing and Resilience,” delves into the pivotal role that healing plays, both at the individual and community levels, in overcoming the enduring effects of racial trauma. We aim to explore how the process of healing acts as a catalyst for resilience, propelling us forward in our shared pursuit of a more equitable and just society. Drawing inspiration from the life, legacy, sermons, speeches, and writings of Martin Luther King Jr., we aspire to engage in meaningful discussions on practical approaches to utilizing these tools for the advancement of social justice.
Together, we will navigate the landscape of healing at various levels, including individual, community, national, and international. This exploration extends beyond racial trauma to encompass life’s broader challenges, such as racism, discrimination, hatred, natural disasters, wars, and violence. An integral aspect of this event is ensuring that every participant, regardless of race, orientation, or age, departs with a profound appreciation for how Martin Luther King Jr.’s work has indelibly impacted their lives.
As this collective eagerly awaits the empowering keynote address by the remarkable Dr. Morgan Medlock at the 2024 Valparaiso University MLK Day Celebration, we extend a special invitation to the entire Justice for Medlock community to unite for this transformative event. Dr. Medlock, a beacon of wisdom and strength, will guide us on the path of continual healing and resilience as she boldly reclaims her power.
Your presence matters. Mark your calendar and join the live stream of the convocation. Let's collectively amplify the voices of healing, justice, and empowerment. Dr. Medlock's presence promises to be a source of inspiration as we engage in meaningful discussions and foster a renewed commitment to justice for all.
With hope, determination, and the power within us all,
The Justice for Medlock Team
