9 Ways To Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. In Bergen

Film screenings, speeches and art exhibits are among the ways we can keep MLK’s legacy alive.
Cheryl De Leon,
1 Mlk

 

On Monday, we honor the legacy of one of the greatest civil rights leaders in American history. Martin Luther King Jr. would have turned 95 on Jan. 15, and 56 years since his death we still use his legacy to spread awareness of tolerance and fight for equality in the U.S.

The following Bergen County events, including services and speakers celebrate the life of MLK, and aim to educate and share his ongoing message.

Events hosted by MLK Celebration Committee of Ridgewood and Glen Rock:

  • Friday, Jan. 12: There will be a screening of the film Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom at the Ridgewood Public Library as well as a discussion afterward led by teaching pastor Rasool Berry. The movie starts at 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, Jan. 13: From 10 a.m. until noon, Ridgecrest Senior Housing is hosting a donation drop-off drive. Requested items include cereals, soaps and paper products.
  • Sunday, Jan. 14: Ridgewood’s Friends to Friends Community Church is holding a celebration of the arts from 5:30 until 8:30 p.m. Explore the work of local artists reacting to the life and philosophies of Martin Luther King Jr.
  • Monday, Jan. 15: There will be an interfaith worship service at Ridgewood United Methodist Church at 10 a.m.
    See the Celebration Committee’s website for more information on these events.

Events hosted by the Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Committee:

  • Monday, Jan 15: The Our Shared Humanity event runs from 6:30 until 8:30 p.m. at Temple Emeth in Teaneck. It will include Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter as a guest speaker, as well as musical performances and scholarship presentations.
    See the Birthday Committee’s website for further information.

Events hosted by the Center for Food Action:

  • Monday, Jan 15: A celebratory Snack Pack Event will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m. to honor Dr. King’s message of “What are you doing for others?” Volunteers will help prepare Snack Packs, which help fight hunger all over Bergen County. All are welcome; see website for more details.

Events hosted by other organizations:

  • Monday, Jan 15: New Hope Baptist Church in Hackensack will hold a special service at 1 p.m. The program will include Senator Britnee Timberlake and music by the Garden State Choral chapter. See website for more information.
  • Tuesday, Jan 16: The New Jersey Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission Youth Conference is a free virtual event which runs from 9:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. It brings together a diverse group of people to celebrate Dr. King’s life’s work and legacy and discuss how to continue his work into the 21st century. Registration information available online.
  • Any time of year: Click here for more ways you can volunteer in honor of MLK’s memory.

How are you honoring Martin Luther King Jr. this weekend? Tell us all about it on Instagram @bergenmagnj.

 

Categories: Bergen Health & Life