The Interdenominational Ministers Fellowship is transitioning one of the nation’s largest MLK Day celebrations to a televised experience for 2021. This year’s theme is ‘Moving the Movement: Honoring our Past, Present and Future.’ The organization is focusing on bridging the generations to keep moving the fight for social justice forward.
The Dr. Martin Luther King Day Weekend will last from Wednesday, Jan. 13, through Monday, Jan. 18, offering multiple virtual events, meet and greet opportunities, and panelists focused on honoring the life, legacy and contributions of Dr. King and the late U.S. Rep. John Lewis to the civil rights movement in Nashville. Rev. James Lawson will be the featured speaker for the convocation program.
“2020 marks 60 years since the sit-ins took place in Nashville and propelled the city forward. Representative John Lewis was one of the students who led that effort as part of the Nashville Christian Leadership Council. On this MLK Day in 2021, we will celebrate the need to continue being ‘Good Trouble,’” Councilwoman Joy Styles, MLK Day 2021 event chair, said.
One way IMF plans to continue this tradition, is through our Youth Symposium.
“Youth voice is essential as we continue to move the movement in social justice and racial equality. If we dismiss their voices, we dismiss our future. They have a power that we can only begin to understand. It is incumbent on all of us who created this space, this movement, to pass the baton to our youth,” said Cheryl Mayes, event co-chair/youth chair.
Martin Luther King, Jr. once said: “I came to Nashville not to bring inspiration, but to gain inspiration from the great movement that has taken place in this community.” IMF continues to uphold that thought, years later, in order to continue MLK’s dream for equality through this weekend of events.
“This annual observance is always an opportunity for introspection, and if necessary, re-direction. We hope that many will join our efforts reflect, renew and continue to move the movement,” said Dr. Chris Jackson, IMF President.
The Interdenominational Ministers Fellowship will feature events such as the Women of Faith Panel, IMF MLK Labor/Human Rights Observance, Youth Symposium, Intergenerational Panel, and Convocation, followed by a virtual meet and greet with speakers. The events’ corporate sponsors include HCA/TriStar, Kroger and Amazon. The MLK Day convocation will be aired on the CW 58 on Monday, Jan. 18, at 11 am.
Honoring the Movement: Reflection on our Past, Thoughts on our Future participants will be able to attend the events for free. The only cost-associated registration needed is for the Monday meet and greet with Rev. Lawson, and the cost is $25. Those interested in attending the events can register at <www.eventbrite.com/e/131605891765>.
