Reading community invited to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on January 19

(2-3 minute read)

Flyer by the Reading Public Library.

The Town of Reading, the Office of Equity and Social Justice (OESJ), and the Reading Public Library invite all residents to come together in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday January 19, from 9:30 am to 11:30 am. The celebration will take place at Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) Performing Arts Center, located at 82 Oakland Road.

This annual event commemorates the legacy, vision, and ongoing impact of Dr. King. Guided by his powerful reminder - “Our goal is to create a beloved community and this will requried a qualitative change in our souls as well as quantitative changes in our lives.” - the gathering aims to uplift unity, compassion, and civic engagement within Reading.

The celebration is free and open to everyone, welcoming individuals and families of all ages.

What to expect

Attendees will enjoy a complimentary breakfast, view student artwork inspired by Dr. King’s teaching, and explore tables hosted by local community organizations. The morning provides an opportunity to reflect, connect, and participate in activities that honor Dr. King’s enduring principles of justice, service, and equity.

Keynote speaker: Dr. Robert Bellinger, PhD

This year’s keynote will be delivered by Dr. Robert Bellinger, a distinguished professor at Suffolk Univeristy. Dr. Bellinger specializes in African American history, African Diasporan studies, and the history and culture of Senegal. His research includes late 19th-century African American history and West African drum traditions.

Dr. Bellinger has been deeply engaged in educator training, expanding school curricula to include African and African diasporan history, and developing transformative study-abroad initiatives that foster cross-cultural understanding. His work powerfully aligns with Dr. King’s vision of global interconnectedness and human dignity.

Accessbility and volunteer information

Those needing accommodations or wishing to volunteer may contact OESJ Director Albert Pless (apless@readingma.gov).

Reading residents are encouraged to join this meaningful morning of reflection, education, and community as we honor the life and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.