Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission
501 Woodlane Drive, Suite 122 South, Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: (888) 290-KING (5464) • Fax: (501) 683-1310
www.ARKingDream.org
Executive Summary
About the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission was created by Act 1216 of 1993. The Commission is an offspring of the Martin Luther King Federal Holiday Commission and was established under then Governor Bill Clinton by executive order. The Commission was created to promote the legacy and philosophy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In 1997, a formal mission statement, a stated purpose, goals and objectives, and the Commission Board were developed. Because of its limited resources, a consensus determined that the Commission would focus on youth oriented projects first, and then expand. Violence and crime among youth was one of the critical concerns with the people of Arkansas. The Commission also formed the Youth Commission Board, which is composed of Arkansas high school and college students who have demonstrated strong qualities of leadership and community service. The Youth Commissioners have particular influence in advising the Commission in projects dealing with youth. The mission of the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission is to promote understanding and acceptance of nonviolence and human equality as a way of building community among all Arkansans. The purpose and goals of the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission are to promote racial harmony, understanding, community service, respect and goodwill among all citizens, to promote principles of nonviolence, promote awareness and appreciation of the Civil Rights movement and advocacy of the principles and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Develop, coordinate and advise the Governor and General Assembly of ceremonies and activities throughout the state relating to the observance of Dr. King’s Holiday.
Mission
Promote racial harmony; understanding; community service, respect and goodwill among all citizens.
Promote principles of nonviolence.
Promote awareness and appreciation of the Civil Rights movement and advocacy of the principles and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Develop, coordinate and advise the Governor and General Assembly of ceremonies and activities throughout the state relating to the observance of Dr. King’s Holiday.
Vision & Goals
The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission is guided by Dr. King's teachings and philosophy of love, tolerance, and nonviolence. The Commission strives for social improvement in Arkansas, helping communities and organizations achieve new levels of leadership and public service. The Commission works directly with youth and others, encouraging them to embrace alternatives to violence and discover their common humanity. Through activities that stress racial and cultural diversity, the Commission offers Arkansas youth a new understanding of the important roles they play in the communities, now and in the future. The Commission advocates creating social change through changing public policy by providing training and technical assistance to developing and established organizations with similar goals. Whether working with the Arkansas State Capitol or at small community centers across the state, the Commission strives to build alliances. The Commission brings people together to better focus on common goals and increase their collective strength.
Brief History since March 5, 2008
First 100 Days in Office
Executive Director celebrated 100 days in office at the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce.
Juneteenth 2008
Presented to a crowd of 10,000 at the Little Rock Riverfront Pavilion
Racial Crises
Diffused a city-wide racial crises in Benton, AR
G.O.T.V. (Get Out to Vote)
To get all Arkansans out and voters to be heard during local, state, and national elections.
Voters right act of 1963, we carry on his legacy to ensure that everyone has the right to vote.
New AMLKC Website
New Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission website designed and implemented. The web address is www.ARKingDream.org. The website is updated on an ongoing basis.
Inauguration Trip
Over 200 Arkansas statewide attended
Arkansas witnessed the Inauguration process of President Elect Barack Obama
That was Dr. King’s Dream, to see change America
Partnered with Little Rock Trailways
Inaugural Ball
Celebrated the first African American President
This was for all Arkansas who couldn’t afford the opportunity to go on the trip to Washington D.C. sponsored by the MLK Commission
Through the Inaugural ball Arkansans could afford to witness history through our Co-Presentation
Vigil 2009, 41st Anniversary of the Assassination of Dr. King
Celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
This affords the opportunity to invite various schools and community organizations to learn about the life and legacy of Dr. King
Requested the April 4th youth community service day proclamation
Operation Appreciation I, II, III, & IV
Mission MLK Commission is committed to recognizing our citizens of Arkansas and demonstrating how much we appreciate and value them. In 2009 and 2010:
► We participated in neighborhood clean-up, went to nursing homes and read to the elderly and played bingo. We also went to the daycare and interacted with the children.
► We empowered communities and created partnerships while breaking down racial barriers.
► 2009 Pine Bluff, AR, Malvern, AR and Searcy, AR each brought over 500 kids to each city from across the state breaking down racial barriers.
► June 17, 2010, the AMLKC held Operation Appreciation IV – Official Kickoff at Crump Park in Little Rock, AR.
► June 24th, 2010, AMLKC summer interns designed and developed first ever AMLKC Bake Sale
► July 14, 2010, the AMLKC held Operation Appreciation IV – Grand Finale at Crump Park in Little Rock, AR.
► June 23, 2010 Primerica gave a financial literacy presentation to the summer interns during the 1st AMLKC summer 2010 potluck.
► July 8, 2010: Read to the children at Arkansas Children’s Hospital
► June 22, 2010 the AMLKC participated in “A Summer Food Celebration” at Moody Chapel AME where Rev. Stewart is the pastor.
► Partnered with the Arkansas Department of Corrections to clean up areas of Crump Park on June 16, 2010, and Kanis Park on July 14, 2010 alongside the Martin Luther King Commission.
RBI (Reviving Baseball in the Inner City) year of 2008, 2009, 2010
The AMLKC help sponsor a Little League Baseball team (The Diamondbacks)
Teaching all teams the six principles of non-violence before the games and during practices.
Youth Basketball 2008, 2009 and 2010
Midnight basketball youth @ Park Hill Baptist Church in North Little Rock, AR
Founded Dream Keepers (“Hold dreams in open hands”)
Dream Keepers sponsored by local community-based organizations. They perform community service projects and pledge to a nonviolent lifestyle. Participants in this program must be between the ages of 11-17.
Founded L.E.A.D. (Leadership, Education & Acceptance of Diversity)
L.E.A.D. Team teaches young Arkansan of all races the principals of racial and religious harmony espoused by Dr. King.
It teaches young people to resolve racial tensions, before it grows into difficult and explosive situations.
Partnership with Big Brother Big Sisters
Members of the L.E.A.D. Program mentor kids and young adults in the central Arkansas region of the state. We are partnered with Central Arkansas and Northwest Arkansas division of Big Brother Big Sisters.
Partnership with Annual National Night Out
Throughout various cities we uplift communities, unify neighborhoods, and teach Arkansas the principles of Dr. King.
Woodson Community Council-Woodson, Arkansas
Partner with Work Programs
Giving youth and adults the opportunity to explore work experiences and community based assignments. The programs we are partnered with are AARP, Pulaski County Youth Services, City of Little Rock, New Futures and CAPPD.
Initiated first ever MLK License Plate
First time ever, in Arkansas, a license plate honoring Dr. King
A fundraiser that goes towards scholarships and the overall programs implemented by the AMLKC.
Rebirth Celebration 2009
This was a celebration of the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission becoming anew and having a fresh start as a state agency. The event honored Senator Henry “Hank” Wilkins IV and Dr. Josetta Wilkins while recognizing our new appointed commissioners. “Rebirth” took place on September 21, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. at Copeland’s Famous New Orleans Restaurant.
Nonviolence Hotline
Any student, who is experiencing a non violence crisis, can call between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. M-F. Our services are free of charge. When you call the crisis hotline you will always speak with a trained professional. Our hotline staff is dedicated to providing the best services to every caller. Our hotline staff is trained to assess the level of individual risk and to determine the appropriate level of services. We have Spanish speaking professionals on staff. We provide services for students who may display violent episodes by nonviolence support, information, and referral.
Arkansas School Districts
We have partnered with the Little Rock School District (LRSD), eStem Public Charter School, Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD), Fayetteville Public Schools, Texarkana Arkansas School District, and Pine Bluff School District and within the district we hold Dream Keepers Tours where we go out to various schools and introducing the L.E.A.D. and Dream Keepers program, while implementing the 6 principles of nonviolence espoused by Dr. King.
Dream Keepers Tour (November 2009)
There were 150-200 students from different schools to march on nonviolence around the State Capitol. The march began at 9:00 a.m. and after the march the students were able to meet and greet some of our legislators while learning about our state government and Dr. King.
MLK Birthday Bash
The MLK Birthday Bash is event to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday and recognize and celebrate all of his work and accomplishments. The bash took place on January 14, 2010 at W.D. “Bill Hamilton Learning Academy at 11:45 a.m.
Moment of Silence for Dr. King
On January 15, 2010 there was a moment of silence for Dr. King throughout each school. It was broadcast on the Little Rock School District station. It will also be moment of silence through the Arkansas Broadcast Association displayed on TV.
Partnership with Central Arkansas Transit Authority (CATA) to provide Free Bus Rides
DuShun Scarbrough requested free bus rides henceforth for Dr. King Holiday in the name of Dr. King and Rosa Parks for Central Arkansas Transit, therefore there will be free bus rides sponsored by the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission and the Central Arkansas Transit authority to promote “A Day of Service.” The first implementation was held on January 18, 2010.
A Day of Service
On January 18, 2010 “A Day of Service” was held at Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas. This event allowed the homeless and less fortunate to have a free meal and a personal hygiene kit. Coach Nolan Richardson spoke about how he feels about Dr. King and how important Dr. King was to all minorities.
Partnered with Olive Garden and Coca Cola
Nonviolence Youth Summit Part I
On January 21, 2010 there was a Nonviolence Youth Summit held at Holiday Inn Convention Center in West Memphis, Arkansas. These Summits allow youth to interact with other students. Isaac Newton Farris Jr. and other guests spoke about the importance of nonviolence in our society and the struggles that they went through in their lives that made them the people that they are today.
The 2nd Annual Vigil 42nd Anniversary of the assassination of Dr. King
The Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Vigil was held on April 2, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. on the steps of the State Capitol. The vigil is a celebration in remembrance of the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Nonviolence Youth Summit Part II
On May 7, 2010, Nonviolence Summit Part II was held in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. These Youth Summits allow youth to interact with other students. Guest speakers presented about the importance of nonviolence in our society and the struggles that they went through in their lives that made them the people that they are today.
A Few Other Events in 2010
Nonviolence training at King Center from April 26th – May 1st
Operation Appreciation IV
Nonviolence Youth Summit Part III
Partnership with CATA (Central Arkansas Transit Authority)
Free Bus rides for the MLK Holiday
Adverting/Promoting the MLK Holiday.
Southeast Arkansas Transportation
Advertising MLK for January through the newspaper
The Newspaper, “Aging Arkansas” which reaches 30,000 people
Facebook
Recently the AMLKC has created Facebook pages for the commission so people are informed on the events that the King Commission hosts. The web address is www.Facebook.com/ARKingDream.org.
Twitter
We want people to be informed on the events that the King Commission host and be a part of on Twitter (www.Twitter.com/AMLKC)
Operation Appreciation IV Grand Finale
In appreciation of the city of Little Rock, festivities of fun, food and celebration were held at Crump Park, July 14, 2010. The mission of the Martin Luther King Jr. Commission was to recognize the citizens of Arkansas and our Partnerships and demonstrate how much we appreciate them. It was the grand finale of a fun filled summer of events, community service projects, fundraisers, and fieldtrips. It was a time out we took to honor and celebrate those heroes of our community who have been the most gracious supporters of the King Commission and thank them for all that they have done in continues service to our beloved community. Over 500 youth and young adults were in attendance as we honored our supporters The City of Little Rock, Coca Cola Enterprises, Inc., Metropolitan National Bank, MLK Enrichment Center, Wrightsville Unit of the Arkansas Department of Corrections, Thrasher Boys and Girls club, P.A.R.K., Job Corps, CADC, Chief Master Anderson’s Taekwondo Martial Arts, Little Rock Fire Department, and Little Rock Police Department.
Community Outreach off the “Beaten Path”:
June and July 2010: In response to the extreme temperatures that gripped the state, the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission gave box-window fans to several families throughout the city.
July 30, 2010: Executive Director DuShun Scarbrough, while on a business trip to Washington DC, arranged and accompanied students from the Ivy Center for Education (I.C.E.), a community-based organization out of New York that was on a College Tour of the Washington DC area, to meet with Elizabeth Burks, Chief of Staff for Senator Blanche Lincoln. A tour of the United States Capitol Building was arranged for the group as well.
August 22, 2010: AMLKC assisted City & Church Leaders of Pine Bluff to successfully initiate the 1st Annual Fun Day for the citizens of Pine Bluff and surrounding areas.
Our Beloved Community Dinner (“OBC Dinner”)
September 14, 2010: In recognition of our valued sponsors and supporters, the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission hosted the annual “Our Beloved Community Dinner”; formerly know as “Rebirth”, at the Olive Garden Restaurant in North Little Rock.
On October 8, 2010 the AMLKC presented Part III of the Nonviolence Youth Summit series at the Donald Reynolds Center on the campus of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. This exciting event allowed area youth to interact with other students. Our dynamic Guest Speakers conducted Breakout Sessions with the students and their chaperones on various topics regarding the importance of nonviolence in our society and the struggles that they went through in their lives which made them the people that they are today. This forum set Junior High and High School students of Northwest Arkansas “abuzz” with excitement!
Arkansas African American History Makers Coloring Book Volume Three
The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission released 100,000 copies of the third edition of the Arkansas African American History Makers Coloring Book throughout the State of Arkansas. The AMLKC held additional events in which the coloring books were distributed. The first event was the Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Bash, which was held on 1/14/2011 and throughout the month of February, Black History Month. The second event in which the coloring books were distributed was at our annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Vigil, marking the 43rd anniversary of Dr. King’s assassination and is a celebration of his Legacy. This event was held on 4/4/2011 at the State Capitol and was attended by children throughout the state. Finally, we distributed the coloring books during Operation Appreciation V.
Red Ribbon Week
October 29, 2010 Mr. Scarbrough, his staff at the AMLKC, and his performing group known as “I.M.A.G.E.” traveled to Pine Bluff, Arkansas to Jack Robey Junior High School and help them celebrate Red Ribbon Week where Mr. Scarbrough spoke to student body of 800+ students about leadership and remaining drug free.
Dream Keepers Tour (December 2010)
December 3, 2010, 9:00 am at McClellan Magnet High School in Little Rock, AR, Mr. Scarbrough spoke to 500+ students about leadership, professional development skills, motivation, self-development, and test preparation. During the speaking engagement, there was a live hip-hop performance with music from dance troop I.M.A.G.E. (Integrity – Motivation – Ambition – Goals – Education) that reinforces the message of Mr. Scarbrough’s speech. Over five-hundred (500) 9th and 10th graders attended.
MLK Birthday Bash 2011
In honor of Dr. King’s birthday, the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission sponsors a celebration of Dr. King’s birthright, legacy, noble work and tenets. Annually we host a bash, a Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Bash presented by the Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission was held on Friday, January 14, 2011 from Noon to 1:00 PM at eStem Public Charter High School in Little Rock, AR. John Bacon – eStem CEO was guest speaker.
MLK Holiday Weekend Speaking Tour 2011
Executive Director DuShun Scarbrough toured the state of Arkansas and spoke at various places as their guest keynote speaker, including Benton, Paris, Fort Smith, Pine Bluff, Fayetteville and North Little Rock.
A Day of Service 2011
“A Day of Service” targets homeless veterans as well as the homeless and less fortunate. We offer each person a free meal and personal hygiene kit as well as many other services such as health screenings and job counseling. In honor of Dr. King and Rosa Parks, Central Arkansas Transit Authority in conjunction with the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission, is providing free bus rides throughout Central Arkansas. Last year we were able to reach out to approximately 500 individuals during this event and this year the AMLKC along with Olive Garden fed 2000 attendees, which approximately 60% of them were of the homeless and less fortunate community. “A Day of Service” was held Monday, January 17th, 2011, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
Celebration of Worship
Following the “A Day of Service” program the AMLKC acknowledged the King Holiday with a Celebration of Worship Service. This event began at 5:00 p.m. on January 17, 2011 at Bethel AME Church (Rev. Tyrone Broomfield – Pastor), which is located at 600 N. Cedar Street in North Little Rock, Arkansas 72114. Mr. DuShun Scarbrough was guest speaker.
Annual Coretta Scott King Women’s Day Conference Series – Part I
In the spirit of Dr. King, and his right hand and beloved wife, Mrs. Coretta Scott King, The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission hosted the First Annual Coretta Scott King Women’s Conferences Series. These conferences target women in our state correctional system. The events are geared toward helping these women regain some of their self-esteem as well as the goals and dreams they have lost due to their current circumstances and to assist those who are to be released to lead productive lives. The events feature motivational and educational workshops that range from living a positive life in spite of the bars, to dressing for success, self-esteem and living the principles of Nonviolence as espoused by Dr. King. We also treat the ladies to make-up lessons, chair massages, dancing and exercise as well as a special catered lunch. It was held at the Hawkins Women’s Unit in Wrightsville, AR on February 15, 2011 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
The 3rd Annual Vigil 43rd Anniversary of the assassination of Dr. King
The Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Vigil will be held on April 4, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. on the steps of the State Capitol. The vigil is a celebration in remembrance of the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dream Keeper/L.E.A.D. School Visits to their Partners in Education
For the 2010/2011 school year, the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission has partnered with Cloverdale Aerospace Technology Conversion Charter Middle School, eStem Public Charter School, Hall High School, Hamilton Learning Academy, Jack Robey Junior High School, and McClellan Magnet High School. Through that partnership, outreach coordinators from the Arkansas MLK Commission visit their schools and hold various presentations about leadership, education, and acceptance of diversity. Moreover, the AMLKC mentors these students in the areas of résumé building, conflict resolution, professional development, scholarship research, and more. Other organizations, groups, and agency are invited from time to time to co-present.
Nonviolence Youth Summit Part IV – Anti-Bullying Conference
The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission, with the assistance of the Arkansas Department of Human Services, hosted “Nonviolence Youth Summit Part IV – Anti-Bullying Conference” featuring Guest Speaker, Martin Luther King, III, at the Arkansas State Capitol located at 500 Woodlane Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72201, (501) 683-1300, which was held on Tuesday, May 31, 2011 from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm. Breakout sessions included: Youth Obesity, Nutrition, and Fitness – Arkansas Minority Health Commission; Cyber Bullying – Arkansas Attorney General’s Office; G.O.T.V. (Get Out To Vote) – Arkansas Secretary of State’s Communications and Education Division; Peer Pressure – Linnsey Sanders from the Department of Workforce Services; and Gangs – Steve Nawojczyk.
The 3rd Annual “Our Beloved Community” Luncheon
The 3rd Annual “Our Beloved Community” Luncheon was held Tuesday May 31, 2011, from 1:45 PM to 2:20 PM at King Interdistrict Magnet Elementary, 905 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, Little Rock, AR 72202. The luncheon is given not only as a token of our appreciation, but as a reminder to the leaders of the community of the importance of their contentious participation, contributions, and support. Martin Luther King, III, the son of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., made a special appearance.
2011 L.E.A.D. Apprenticeship Training Workshop
Little Rock - L.E.A.D. (Leadership, Education and Acceptance of Diversity) is a mentorship and leadership program, created by Executive Director DuShun Scarbrough, to enhance today’s youth through social, academic, and career opportunities. During the summer of 2011, AMLKC will launch, for the third year, the L.E.A.D. Apprenticeship Training Workshop, in which our summer youth interns participate. This workshop’s primary objectives are to develop skills in communication, conflict resolution, financial literacy, strategic thinking and marketing, etc. Education in the areas of business etiquette, entrepreneurship, and leadership are vital to this program as well.
New Partners in Education (2011
The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission thanks Fuller Middle School and Argenta Academy for becoming the King Commission’s newest partners in education.
Arkansas State Fair’s “Day of Caring”
The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission donated free admission and ride passes to three of its partners in education, which were Argenta Academy, eStem, and Fuller Middle School for the Wednesday, October 19, 2011 Arkansas State Fair’s “Day of Caring”..
Nonviolence Youth Summit Part V
The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission hosted “Nonviolence Youth Summit Part V”, at the University of Arkansas Community College at Hope’s Johnny Rapert Library Complex located at 2500 South Main, Hope, Arkansas, Friday, October 21, 2011, from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm, with keynote speaker, Professor Joe Martin.
Professor Joe Martin is an award-winning motivational speaker, author, professor, and retention expert. He’s authored or co-authored seven books, including the top-selling Good Teachers Never Quit, Let Your Leadership Speak, and Tricks of the Grade. Joe has spoken for more than 600 businesses, organizations, colleges & universities, and K-12 schools/districts. His presentations are encouraging.
Various Web links about the AMLKC
Martin Luther King, Jr. Vigil http://www.arkansasonline.com/galleries/14458/album/
News Release from Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission www.todaysthv.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=74198&catid=2
Fayetteville Students Participate in Nonviolence Youth Summit Part III www.fayar.net/community/featurestoryMLKNonviolenceSummit.html
Arkansans Heading to Inauguration www.cwarkansas.com/mostpopular/story/Arkansans-Heading-to-Inauguration/mn_FJuHPg0iSjRtoCxHVWA.cspx
CATA makes bus rides free on King holiday www.allbusiness.com/government/government-bodies-offices-regional/13263969-1.html
AMLKC Website www.ARKingDream.org
AMLKC Facebook Page www.Facebook.com/ARKingDream.org
AMLKC Twitter Page www.Twitter.com/AMLKC
“A Day of Service” http://arkingdream.org/ProgramsActivities/ADayofService.aspx
Other Past, Current, and Future Events www.facebook.com/ARKingDream.org?v=app_2344061033
The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission is coming to an Area near You!
STATE WIDE:
*G.O.T.V. (Get Out to Vote)
*New aMLKC Website, fACEBOOK, tWITTER, AND pHOTOBUCKET
*FIRST 100 DAYS IN OFFICE
*Inauguration Trip
*DREAM KEEPERS TOUR
BENTON:
*sCARBROUGH dEFUSES RACIAL CRISIS
FAYETTEVILLE:
*NONVIOLENCE YOUTH SUMMIT PART iii
HOPE:
*NONVIOLENCE YOUTH SUMMIT pART v
LITTLE ROCK/North Little Rock:
*Commemorative Vigil
*JUNETEENTH
*A DAY OF SERVICE
*REBIRTH CELEBRATION
*MLK BIRTHDAY BASH
*Inaugural BalL
*Operation Appreciation IV
*MLK Birthday Bash
*“Our Beloved Community” Dinner
*Celebration of Worship
*NONVIOLENCE YOUTH SUMMIT PART IV
MALVERN:
*OPERATION APPRECIATION ii
PINE BLUFF:
* NONVIOLENCE YOUTH SUMMIT PART ii
*1ST ANNUAL FUN DAY
*OPERATION APPERCEPTION i
*RED RIBBON WEEK PROGRAM
sEARCY:
*OPERATION APPERCEPTION iii
WEST MEMPHIS:
*NONVIOLENCE YOUTH SUMMIT PART i
Wrightsville:
*First Annual Coretta Scott King Women’s Conference Part 1
Arkansas MLK Commission’s List of Upcoming Events
“Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Bash” in Little Rock, AR on Friday, January 13, 2012 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Students celebrate Dr. King’s birthday while deepening their knowledge and appreciation of diversity by taking part in the annual “Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Bash” presented by the Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission. The commission works directly with youth and others, encouraging them to embrace alternatives to violence and discover their common humanity. Through activities that stress racial and cultural diversity, events such as this will help the next generation achieve Dr. King’s dream of understanding and acceptance of nonviolence and human equality as a way of building common unity among all Arkansans. Come out, celebrate, and enjoy!
“A Day of Service – A Day On, Not A Day Off” in Conway, AR on Monday, January 16, 2012 from Noon to 3:00 PM
The congressionally legislated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service is a United States holiday marking the birth of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and is observed on the third Monday of January around the time of Dr. King’s birthday, January 15, 1929. It is one of three United States federal holidays to commemorate an individual. We acknowledge and observe this day across the state through various ceremonies and civic activities; establishing awareness and appreciation of the civil rights movement and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “A Day of Service – A Day On, Not A Day Off” will be held at the Reynolds Center at the University of Central Arkansas at noon.
“Annual Coretta Scott King Day Women’s Conference Series” in Pine Bluff, AR on Wednesday, February 15, 2012 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The purpose of this conference is to act as a catalyst in helping to empower women who are currently incarcerated within the Arkansas State Prison system. In keeping with the noble tenets of Dr. King’s teachings and philosophy of love, tolerance, and nonviolence, the AMLKC embraces these women whose poor life choices have led them in to our prison system. Through activities, speakers, and resources that stress the importance of education, economic development health and wellness, we show these women that they still have the opportunity to lead productive lives from prison and beyond by giving them hope and the skills necessary to make positive life changes.
“Nonviolence Youth Summit Part VI – A NEW BEGINNING” in Harrison, AR on Friday, February 24, 2012 from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM
These summits are structured to educate the youth throughout Arkansas on ways they can begin to change the face of violence in their communities and become ambassadors of peace and to help youth make choices that will have a positive impact on their lives and communities. These summits are designed to promote education and literacy as well as to encourage youth to engage in positive leadership development and roles within their communities. Safe communities are one of the many benefits to those who collaborate with the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission, promoting leadership, volunteerism, social equality and nonviolence through these summits. “Nonviolence Youth Summit Part VI – A NEW BEGINNING” at the Durand Conference Center in Harrison, AR. Both summits will be held from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
“Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Vigil” in Little Rock, AR on Wednesday, April 4, 2012 from 10:00 AM to Noon
Part of the mission of the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission is to promote and preserve the life and legacy of Dr. King in our state. Therefore, we acknowledge the anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr by presenting a commemorative vigil, timed to coincide with King’s last day of life, April 3, 1968. This vigil serves as a celebration in remembrance of the noble works and tenets of Dr. King. We invite the community to participate and join us as our agency takes great pride in fulfilling Dr. King’s philosophies of social equality and multiculturalism.
“Arkansas African American History Makers Coloring Book Volume Four” in 2012
The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission will release the fourth edition of the Arkansas African American History Makers Coloring Books in 2012.
“Dream Keeper Tours” TBA
Mr. DuShun Scarbrough, Executive Director of the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission along with his staff, volunteers, and supporters, visit various schools throughout the state to host motivational engagements filled with exciting performances and powerful words of advice and guidance.
“G.O.T.V. (Get Out to Vote)” TBA
The purpose of G.O.T.V. is to get all Arkansans out to vote in order to ensure that their voice is heard during the Elections. In the year 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law, permanently removing direct barriers to political participation by racial and ethnic minorities, prohibiting any election practice that denies the right to vote on account of race and requiring jurisdictions with a history of discrimination in voting to get federal approval of changes in their election laws before they can take effect. We carry on this legacy today ensuring that everyone has the right to vote.
“Our Beloved Community Dinner” TBA
In recognition of our valued sponsors and supporters, the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission hosts the annual “Our Beloved Community Dinner”, a celebratory appreciation dinner held in honor of those in our community who have given generously of their resources, time and talent. The dinner is a testament to the importance of their support and the time we take to honor and celebrate the heroes of our community who have been the most gracious supporters of the King Commission. It is an opportunity to thank them for their continuous service to our beloved community. The dinner is held not only as a token of our appreciation, but as reminder to community leaders of the importance of the role they play, past present and future, as we continue to promote principles of nonviolence, community service, and goodwill to all citizens throughout our state and abroad. It is a reminder of the role they play in our quest for social improvement as we move forward to nurture leaders, promote education and push for diversity, guided by Dr. King’s mission and philosophy of love, tolerance, and nonviolence.
For More Information, Please:
Register online at www.ARKingDream.org