Honoring King and Robeson legacies
Two African-American leaders were honored on campus during events the week of Jan. 19. On Monday, the University paid tribute to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. at a celebration in Richardson Auditorium. Valerie Smith (right), director of Princeton's Program in African-American Studies, delivered the keynote address, challenging the audience to "work out the most meaningful way" to honor the legacy of the slain civil rights leader and to "seek to explore the deeper, more profound meanings of his life and ministry." The event also included performances by the University Gospel Ensemble (top left) and the recognition of area school children who won prizes in the University's annual essay, poster and video contests. In addition, the University's King Day Committee announced the establishment of the MLK Journey Award. The award will be given annually beginning at the 2005 King Day celebration to a member of the faculty, staff or student body who most represents the continued journey started by King. On Tuesday, a U.S. postage stamp commemorating the life of Princeton native Paul Robeson was unveiled in a ceremony also in Richardson Auditorium. The U.S. Postal Service honored the famed activist, performer and athlete as part of its Black Heritage series. Among the speakers (bottom left) were Princeton Provost Amy Gutmann and Robeson's son, Paul Jr., who said, "The stamp is a symbol of our nation's recognition of Paul Robeson's service, not only to our nation but also to the world." For more about the events, visit the home page captions archive on the Web at <www.princeton.edu/pr/home/arc/>. |
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