LCC celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy

By Emmett Roman
Staff Reporter

Martin Luther King Jr. was an American civil rights activist from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. King worked to advance civil rights for people of color through nonviolent resistance during the Jim Crow era.

On Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, LCC honored King through several events aimed at advancing the college’s mission to equip and empower a diverse community of learners.

The celebration took place from 5 to 8 p.m. beginning with a welcome from President Steve Robinson. Keynote speaker Elaine Hardy from the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of Mid-Michigan shared many stories, even recounting her meetings with those who marched with King. She also spoke to how King’s message is still relevant as we face today’s challenges.

There was also a panel discussion featuring LCC history professor Jeff Janowick, LAFCU Chief Marketing and Diversity Officer Kelli Ellsworth Etchison, LCC sociology and education professor Dr. Willie Davis and Interim Chief Diversity Officer Tanya McClain.  

The celebration included a gallery of artwork, posters, pictures, video tapes, movies and other artifacts from notable civil rights leaders and Black artists. Participants were given nostalgic church fans—like those often provided in Black American Christian churches, especially in the South, prior to air-conditioning being commonplace—with an image of King on them. The fun continued with a pop-up library, hors d’oeuvres, and an optional 1960’s-inspired dress code. 51 of 78 registered guests braved the cold weather and attended the event.  

McClain, who helped organize the event in addition to speaking on the panel, stated that many attendees seemed to enjoy all the different aspects of the program. “We were very pleased with the turnout and heartfelt engagement from everyone who attended. The energy in the room was powerful; people connected and left inspired. It was a genuine celebration of Dr. King’s legacy,” McClain stated in an email.

The Office of Empowerment is hosting several upcoming events, including the Malcolm X Symposium on Feb. 19. The event is open to both LCC students and the community.