Juilliard celebrated the 85th anniversary of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.’s birth with an evening of song, dance, and words. The day, January 21, had started inspirationally with the second inauguration of President Barack Obama; students, staff, and faculty members paused midday to watch his speech on large-screen TVs installed around the School. Hours later student, alumni, and guest performers honored King’s legacy at the 25th annual Juilliard M.L.K. celebration, which was directed by Maechi Aharanwa (Group 38). 

A piece that drew from the words of Obama, King, and others—and was performed by a student string quartet and third-year actor Corey Dorris—summed up the essence of the celebration. “We do not need to recite here the history of racial injustice in this country. It is where we start. It is where our union grows stronger. Do not lose heart. We shall overcome!”