MLK Assembly Inspires and Uplifts

To honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Black Student Union (BSU) organized a thoughtful and inspiring assembly that brought together voices from across the school community. Led by Zaire Ramiz, Joella Asapokhai, and Riley Anderson, with support from faculty and administrators, the event seamlessly blended personal reflections, music, and an interactive trivia game celebrating Dr. King’s life and impact.

 

The assembly featured moving performances, including The Storm is Passing Over by Middle School students and Hold Fast to Your Dreams by the Concert Choir. Student emcees Alex Ndiaye and Donovan Thomas skillfully guided the event, which served as both a celebration of Dr. King’s enduring vision and a call to action for the community to live out the school’s core values of respect, empathy, and intellectual curiosity.

 

Middle School student Danni Thomas shared how Dr. King’s words resonated with her, emphasizing the importance of judging others not by race or gender but by the content of their character. She acknowledged the need to stand up for what is right, inspired by Dr. King’s powerful message of justice.

 

Lia Prahl reflected on how Dr. King’s legacy is often simplified, obscuring the depth of his message. She highlighted the importance of critical thinking, forming opinions grounded in truth, and listening to the voices of those in need. “Dr. King challenges us not just to dream but to act on those dreams,” she said, emphasizing the relevance of his teachings today.

 

Eighth-grader Quincy Arnold found inspiration in Dr. King’s famous question, “What are you doing for others?” Taking this to heart, Quincy spent his day off volunteering at Hands-On Hartford, a local food pantry. He shared how he and his mother honor Dr. King’s legacy through service, contributing to their community by sorting food items and preparing food-filled backpacks for children in need.

 

For Gabe Chapman, Dr. King’s words are a call to action. Quoting, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” Gabe reminded his peers that even small acts of injustice undermine justice for everyone. He encouraged the community to build a space where all individuals are respected and valued, a vision rooted in King’s ideals.

 

Ms. Baldwin, a parent of Danni and Donovan Thomas, recounted her parents’ experience growing up in the segregated South. She shared a powerful story of how they defied societal norms by sitting in a whites-only section at a movie theater. Despite facing harassment, they stood their ground, embodying the nonviolent resistance championed by Dr. King. Reflecting on his teachings, Ms. Baldwin reminded the audience that challenges should inspire strength and composure, urging everyone to stand up for what is right, even in moments of discomfort.

 

 

Middle School math teacher Tylon Smith offered a deeply personal reflection on his time as a student at KO. Despite encountering racial profiling and discrimination, he chose to channel his frustrations into positive action. “I decided to be in control of my destiny,” he said. Smith urged students to contribute to a community that reflects the school’s core values, leaving a legacy of inclusivity and respect.

 

Hadley Hirsh, the student organizer of No Place for Hate, an initiative developed by the Anti-Defamation League, spoke about the school’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment. Hirsh invited students and faculty to sign a pledge in their advisory groups, reaffirming their dedication to kindness and inclusivity in alignment with Dr. King’s vision.

The assembly concluded with an engaging trivia contest highlighting key moments and achievements in Dr. King’s life. The BSU leadership expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the event’s success.

 

Joella Asapokhai hoped the audience would understand Dr. King’s work more deeply, leaving the assembly with a renewed sense of purpose. Riley Anderson hoped the audience was inspired to live intentionally, spreading love and positivity in the community.

 

This year’s Martin Luther King Jr. assembly was not only a celebration of his legacy but also a powerful reminder of the responsibility each of us has to continue his work. By fostering empathy, respect, and action, the school community strives to embody Dr. King’s vision in meaningful and transformative ways.

 

Participants included: BSU leaders – Riley Anderson, Joella Asapokhai, and Zaire Ramiz

Faculty advisors/support – Mr. Smith, Mr. Mutts, Mrs. Rose

SLAT support – Mrs. Loeb, Mrs. Baker

Alex Ndiaye — MC

Donovan Thomas — MC

Lia Prahl — Reflection

Ryan Lingashi — Reflection

Quincy Arnold — Reflection

Gabriel Chapman — Reflection

Danni Thomas — Reflection

DJ Biggins — Trivia

Cam Thomas — Trivia

Justin Morle –Trivia

Justice Hanna — Trivia

Zaire Ramiz — Closing Remarks + Reflection 

Riley Anderson — Closing Remarks + Reflection

Joella Asapokhai — Closing Remark + Reflection

Ms. Baldwin (Donovan and Danni’s mom)

Hadley Hersh, Lia Prahl, TT – No Place for Hate

Schauntice Marshall – MS Choir

David Baker – US Choir

Michael Bane – Tech