Bunker Hill Community College’s 2nd Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Community Breakfast
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
Bunker Hill Community College hosted its 2nd Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Community Breakfast on Tuesday, February 4. The event brought together students, faculty, and community members to honor Dr. King’s legacy, focusing on the theme “Sticking to Love: MLK’s Inspired Vision for Unity and Social Change, Then and Now.”
The program began with a warm introduction by Justice Kumahia, Dean of Students. In his remarks, Justice Kumahia welcomed attendees and introduced President Pam Eddinger who reflected on the importance of MLK’s message of love and its meaning related to the College’s steadfast commitment to equity and inclusion.
Introduced by Denise Turner from the Office of College Events and Cultural Planning, accomplished cellist and vocalist Bithyah Israel led attendees in a powerful rendition of “Lift Every Voice & Sing," often called the Black National Anthem. Her performance set a profoundly reflective and inspiring tone for the morning.
Following the music, attendees were touched by Professor and Author Caroline Kautsire’s reading of the poem "A Legacy of Love.” The poem beautifully expressed the essence of MLK’s vision and the continuous fight for justice, resonating profoundly with the audience. Here is an excerpt:
Let us, then, in the spirit of Dr. King,
Choose love.
For in choosing love, we will rise,
For in choosing love, we abolish hate's darkest skies.
Choose love every day, in every way,
For in love, we find the true power to change—this place—into the world we want to see.”
Professor Carlos Maynard of the Behavioral Science Department delivered the keynote speech. His address, “Sticking to Love: MLK’s Inspired Vision for Unity and Social Change, Then and Now,” explored how Dr. King’s philosophy of love and nonviolent resistance remains relevant in today’s social and political climate. Professor Maynard emphasized the role of education and community engagement in continuing MLK’s mission, inspiring attendees to take action in their own communities.
To conclude the event, Nahomi Carlisle, Associate Vice President and Chief Equity and Compliance Officer, expressed gratitude to all speakers and performers, encouraging everyone to carry forward the lessons of the day in their daily lives and interactions.
The 2nd Annual MLK Day Community Breakfast was a powerful and uplifting gathering, reminding attendees of Dr. King’s enduring message of love, unity, and social change. Through music, poetry, and insightful reflections, the event reaffirmed Bunker Hill Community College’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and just society.