Bellarmine University will commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a “Week of Social Responsibility” January 15-20 that features events and community engagement opportunities, culminating in a visit to the Muhammad Ali Center Friday in
downtown Louisville.
Bellarmine’s Center for Community Engagement is hosting the week of events. The theme is ‘Social Determinants of Health,’ reflecting a reoccurring topic in the wider community.
“We thought that the discussion was current and needed to be addressed as a means to activate civic engagement,” said Sydney Bland, Assistant Director of Community Engagement.
The CDC defines social determinants
of health as the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes, such as the conditions in which people work and live.
“This year we have partnered with community leaders from the area who are well versed in the health
inequities of Louisville,” Bland said. “Some have experienced this firsthand, while others serve those communities. They are willing to speak openly and candidly about their experiences, along with possible solutions, and are eager to
share their knowledge.”
Bellarmine has commemorated MLK Day with community engagement for more than 25 years. Last year, the Center for Community Engagement expanded the day to a full week of events, activities and engagement opportunities.
“This tradition is one that is steeped in social responsibility,” Bland said. “We recognize that the words, studies and actions of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. not only apply to our country's past, but our present
and future. This week is one of many ways students and communities can engage or re-engage with conversations about inequity, social change, action and the human condition.”
Martin Luther King, Jr. Week of Social Responsibility
Jan. 15-20: Art Exhibit in the Atrium
Jan. 15, 4- 5 p.m.: Service in Hilary’s
Jan. 16, 2-4 p.m.: Active Community Engagement with The Hope Buss *Meet by the Franciscan at 1:45 p.m.
Jan. 17, 10
a.m.-1 p.m.: Social determinants of health tabling with heath checks and health resources in Café Ogle
Jan. 18, 4-5 p.m.: Spiritual Healing - What is racial trauma? Located in Dr. Patricia Carver Office of Identity and Inclusion
Jan. 19, 11 a.m.-noon: Convocation - panel discussion and lunch in the James and Norma Mason Admissions Theater
Jan. 20, 6- 8 p.m.: Celebration of African American Culture and Music in Frazier Hall
Jan. 17,
12:30-5 p.m.: BU Day at the Muhammad Ali Center – Includes a guided tour and workshop. View the schedule on Engage and RSVP HERE. If you have any questions, please reach out to Dr. Tomarra Adams.
Check out the CCE's Instagram for
additional information and daily giveaways.