Northwestern University's annual commemoration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will pay tribute to King's vision for a "Beloved Community" with events and projects planned throughout the month.
The programming kicks off Sunday, Jan. 18 at 2 p.m. with the MLK candlelight vigil. Hosted annually since 1979 by the Alpha Mu Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, the vigil will be held in the Alice Millar Chapel.
The 2026 keynote event, featuring a panel of experts comprised of Northwestern faculty and community leaders, will break down the concept, practice and possibilities of "Beloved Community." The event takes place Tuesday, January 20 at 5 p.m. at Galvin Hall. A reception at the Segal Visitor's Center will follow.
The panel will be moderated by Sylvester Johnson, chair and professor of Black studies. Panelists include Leslie Harris, professor of history; Kate Masur, John D. MacArthur Professor of History; Morris "Dino" Robinson, production manager at Northwestern University Press and founder of Shorefront Legacy Center; and Laurice Bell, executive director of Shorefront Legacy Center.
"As we close out 2025, we eagerly look ahead to a dynamic panel discussion from scholars and community experts reflecting on the impactful events, trends and shifts that shaped this year," said Michelle Manno, associate provost for community enrichment. "We will explore how our current moment relates to a vision popularized by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr."
The candlelight vigil and keynote panel are free and open to the public. For the full schedule of events, visit Northwestern's MLK website.
