MLK DAY ALL-SCHOOL ASSEMBLY

A schoolwide assembly may be difficult to pull off during a pandemic, but Boys’ Latin was not about to let Martin Luther King Day go unrecognized. In each year prior to this one, the entire community has gathered together in the Iglehart for a program commemorating the life and legacy of the famed Civil Rights leader and orator. Since such a large gathering was impossible this year, the program instead took the form of a video, which all students and faculty viewed on Friday morning, either in small groups around campus or from their own homes. According to Ms. Tubman, who spearheaded the endeavor just as she has many times before, the planning committee, which included five upper school boys and sixteen faculty or staff members, was larger than ever before. The video also featured a wide range of student voices: eighteen students from grades two through twelve appeared on screen to offer commentary.  

The video opened with an introduction from Headmaster Post, who provided a reminder of King’s importance to American history. “I believe that Dr. King is the most important American who has never held or run for political office,” he told the community, “He led from principles and beliefs. He led from his convictions, and he led all of our nation, shaping a conversation difficult at times, confrontational at others, that advanced the cause of all people.” King’s efforts, continued Mr. Post, amounted to a “commitment to create positive change.”

Additionally, the video focused on four prominent Black Americans who passed away in 2020: politicians Elijah Cummings and John Lewis, author Toni Morrison, and actor Chadwick Boseman. The quartet “were among the many folks who labored for black representation and the rights of Americans,” commented Spencer Becker ’25.

The five students on the planning committee – Tony Hicks ‘23, Jonathan Elliott ‘21, Neelan McMillan ‘21, Didier Osias ‘21, and Jamarr Watson ‘21 – gave the last word, with Didier powerfully encouraging his peers to honor King’s legacy by using their own voices to lead and inspire. “I see a lot of strong figures in the school every day,” he said, “With a strong will and determination, I believe that every single one of you can become leaders.”

Aidan Habibi ’22 lent his talents to the video with a jazzy piano accompaniment.

Please click here to watch our MLK Day assembly.