PolyToday: Middle School Assembly Explores the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

In preparation for Martin Luther King Jr. Day next week, Middle School students gathered for an assembly exploring the life, leadership, and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Students viewed excerpts from a 1967 video of Dr. King speaking directly to Middle School students and heard firsthand reflections from founding members of the Martin Luther King Community Coalition, Drs. Jackie Jacobs and David Jacobs, who shared personal memories of Dr. King as their pastor during their college years. Primary sources anchored the program, including Dr. King’s response to violence, even after his home was bombed, underscoring his commitment to peaceful protest. The assembly also featured a musical performance by Angie Fisher and a keynote address by Dr. Phlunté Riddle, a retired lieutenant from the Pasadena Police Department, who reflected on her distinguished career, often as the only woman and person of color, before returning to school to earn her PhD. Dr. Riddle emphasized the importance of standing up for others. 

The assembly offered students a powerful reminder that Dr. King’s legacy lives on through thoughtful reflection, meaningful dialogue, and the courage to stand up for others.