University of Virginia and area community organizations are offering a variety of events as part of this year’s recognition of the legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

While the federal holiday will be observed Monday, UVA and community partners will hold events beginning Sunday and continuing through Jan. 31.

“Partnering with various groups and the community amplifies the impact of the annual Community MLK Celebration,” said Meghan Faulkner, chief of staff at UVA’s Division for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “It brings diverse perspectives, expertise and experiences to the table, enriching the dialogue and ensuring a more comprehensive approach to the planning efforts. We hope that bringing together this diverse group helps to generate positive change, both on and off Grounds.”

"University of Virginia and local community members have the opportunity to attend a range of events over the latter half of January that will focus on the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. Among those expected to appear are retired Virginia Supreme Court Justice John Charles Thomas and keynote speaker Yaba Blay, whose commentary and activism focus on Black culture. There also will be several panel discussions on current topics related to race.

"UVA’s Division for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion oversees the annual Community MLK Celebration program, and this year’s theme is “Celebrating the Dream, Continuing the Journey.” Because UVA observes Monday’s federal holiday and the semester doesn’t begin until Wednesday, events will take place over the following two weeks." (