The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. believed in the power of people coming together to make change. This MLK Week, help the college bring that spirit to life by participating in events that inspire, connect, and energize. Take a look at what’s happening and find your way to join the Intercultural Life (ICL) Office in celebrating King’s life, legacy, and work.
Events begin on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, Jan. 19, and are open to the public.
Events for MLK Week 2026:
Monday, Jan. 19
Day of Service, projects on the Orange Carpet, Thomas Commons, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.Join the Intercultural Life (ICL) Office and the Office of Student Activities in commemorating the life and legacy of Dr. King through multiple community service projects. In collaboration with the Southeast Linn Community Center, these service projects will provide Cardiac Huggy-Heart pillows for University of Iowa heart surgery patients, Icy-Dicey sand bottles for the assisted living patients to sprinkle on the ground for safely walking around during the winter in the Mount Vernon and Lisbon communities, and a canned food drive to replenish the new Natalia’s Food Pantry on Cornell’s campus.
Join the ICL Office, the Spiritual Life Office, and the Black Awareness Cultural Organization (BACO) in commemorating the life and legacy of Dr. King. The vigil, led by the Rev. Melea White, will begin at 4 p.m. near the information desk in the Thomas Commons, proceed to Allee Chapel, and end in the MLK room in Thomas Commons. The BACO Kahoot—celebrating the life, legacy, and impacts of the civil rights movement and led by BACO—will begin at 5 p.m. in the MLK room (or Hedges if more seats are needed).
Tuesday, Jan. 20
Join the ICL office in this self-directed walk-through symposium on the impact of the Civil Rights Movement and considerations for civil rights in our everyday lives.
ICL and the Ebersole Health and Wellbeing Center crew invite students and community members to a paint-and-go canvas activity centered on reflection and creativity. Using quotes from Dr. King, participants will design affirmations that encourage connection, wellness, and community.
Wednesday, Jan. 21:
Join ICL, BACO Living Learning Community, GENTE and the Ebersole Health and Wellbeing Center for an empowering discussion forum themed “We Shall Overcome.” Rooted in the spirit of the Civil Rights Movement, the event will focus on overcoming adversity through radical healing, nurturing mental health and wellness, and collectively identifying safe spaces where individuals and communities can heal and thrive.
Thursday, Jan. 22: