Clayton News Daily

“His Dream, Your Vision” is the theme of the 2012 Martin Luther King Jr., celebration at Clayton State University.

The celebration –– Jan. 16-19 –– will be coordinated by the Clayton State Department of Campus Life, in collaboration with AmeriCorps and Diversity Education Experiences for Peers Educators, according to CSU Director of University Relations John Shiffert.

The four days of commemoration will include a day of service and MLK Rally and March in Atlanta, an MLK Rally at Forest Park High School, and an MLK Showcase.

“Of special note,” Shiffert said, “this year’s celebration will feature an essay contest that is open to all high school students at Forest Park High School, Jonesboro High School, Morrow High School, and Mt. Zion High School. Participants will write an essay reflecting on the theme, and focus on how King’s dream has influenced them personally, civically, and educationally.”

Shiffert added that the top-three essays from students will be acknowledged at the Martin Luther King Showcase –– a forum in which CSU students will “showcase” their interpretation of Dr. King’s dream, vision, and life through song, dance, and/or poetry. The showcase will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 13.

This year’s scheduled events, including the showcase, are as follows:

• Monday, Jan. 16

MLK Day of Service –– A Day On, Not A Day Off

8 a.m., to 3 p.m., Students will have the opportunity to volunteer to help others at several sites in Atlanta, through Hands On Atlanta.

• Tuesday, Jan. 17

“His Dream, Your Vision” Rally

2:15 p.m., to 3:15 p.m., at Forest Park High School, located at 5452 Phillips Drive, in Forest Park. Participants will help educate students about Dr. King’s dream, vision and life.

• Wednesday, Jan. 18

“His Dream, Your Vision” MLK Showcase

6:30 p.m., to 8:30 p.m., at Spivey Hall, located at 2000 Clayton State Blvd.., in Morrow.

• Thursday, Jan. 19

AmeriCorps’ Service Cinema –– Viewing: “The Human Experience”

5 p.m., to 7 p.m., at SAC Ballroom C, located at 2000 Clayton State Blvd, in Morrow.

This documentary spotlights heartwarming stories from around the world –– homeless New Yorkers, Peruvian orphans and isolated Ghanian lepers –– to show viewers that “every single person, no matter his or her role in life, is beautiful.”