Stephanie Johnson
University of Redlands, 909-748-8075
Honoring the Legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Jan 20, 2025
Dear University Community,
This past Saturday, I had the privilege of attending the 10th anniversary of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. youth camp, hosted by the Village SBC, formerly the Second Baptist Church of Redlands. This powerful event celebrates the life and enduring legacy of Dr. King.
The theme of the youth camp, The Dream Continues Through Us, deeply resonated with me. Surrounded by some of the youngest members of our community, I was reminded of a profound truth: Dr. King’s dream isn’t just a part of history; it’s a living call to action.
At the event I shared a message that I’d like to share with you today: You are the heartbeat of this dream. Your voices, your ideas, and your actions matter. Whether on campus, in your neighborhood, or far beyond, you have the power to lead, inspire, and create a more just and equitable world.
As a University, we remain committed to fostering an environment where this vision can thrive. Through our Anti-Racism Plan and ongoing meaningful conversations across campus, we are actively building a community where every person feels valued and empowered to achieve their full potential.
This week, as we come together to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King, I encourage you to reflect on his steadfast commitment to service, justice, and community. I hope you will join me in participating in one of the meaningful activities planned. A heartfelt thank you to our colleagues in Student Affairs, the Office for Inclusion and Community, Community Service Learning, the BSFSAA, and many other departments across campus for their dedication and hard work in bringing this week-long celebration to life.
In closing, let us remember that Dr. King’s dream calls us to act—not only to celebrate our progress but also to remain focused on the work that lies ahead. The dream continues. Together, we will ensure it thrives.
Sincerely,
Krista L. Newkirk
President