UK, Lexington Celebrate MLK Day on Monday, Jan. 21
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 21, 2018) — Actor, poet, singer, composer and author Daniel Beaty will headline the annual commemoration and celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day in downtown Lexington Monday, Jan. 21, 2019.
Beaty will deliver the keynote address on the theme of “Transforming Our Pain to Power.” A graduate of Yale University and the American Conservatory Theatre, Beaty has garnered numerous awards for his original plays and has created a nationally recognized social justice initiative that uses the tools of the arts, immersive group exercises, and trauma recovery to support young people facing race and class inequity in America.
He has developed original TV shows for Showtime and Fox/Imagine and produced a documentary about the impact of mass incarceration on children and families. His own father was a heroin addict in and out prison 60 times.
Beaty's presentation will be augmented by drama, poetry and music during the program beginning at 11 a.m. inside Heritage Hall at Lexington Center.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Day Freedom March begins at 10 a.m. from Heritage Hall, with marchers lining up starting at 9 a.m.
In addition to Beaty, the popular musical group, Zeb Harrison and the Sounds of Praise will bring their unique ‘shout band’ style to the program.
This annual tribute to King’s legacy is co-sponsored by the University of Kentucky, the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government and other community sponsors.
One World Films also will present a free showing of the movie, “Loving,” at 2:30 p.m. at the Kentucky Theatre, as part of the MLK Day festivities.
The march, program and film are all free of charge, and everyone is welcome to attend.