U City to host ‘What’s YOUR Dream?’ Dr. MLK Celebration

Make plans to join the University City community at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 19, for the 27th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. community-wide Celebration.

This year’s theme is “What’s YOUR Dream?”

The event starts on the front lawn of Jackson Park School with a “Positive Protest March” led by University City High School’s drum line. The program immediately follows in the UCHS Charles Banks auditorium.

New this year is a “Positive Family Poster Project.” Community members and families are encouraged to create signs in keeping with the theme to carry as they march. Sign carriers will receive a raffle ticket as they enter the auditorium. At the end of the program, participants will be invited on stage to compete in a drawing for donated prizes and gift cards.

 As in the past, students are encouraged to submit creative writing and artwork through their classroom teachers prior to winter break for inclusion in a commemorative book or event display. A school representative will select oratorical contest participants based on book submissions. These participants will present their work during the celebration. 

See our coverage of last year's event by clicking here.

One highlight of the celebration is the presentation of the 2013 MLK Spirit Award. Official nomination forms are due by 4:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, and may be submitted by email to dtolliver@ucityschools.org or by mail to the School District of University City Board of Education, 8136 Groby Road, University City, MO 63130.

Nominees must be an individual or group, living or deceased, who works or has worked toward racial unity and justice, and is or has been a University City resident. More details including past recipients are available online.