Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration of Human Rights

A Celebration of Human Rights

Recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthdate has been a tradition at the University of Iowa since 1969, and the national holiday has been observed through human rights programs since its inception in 1986. In 1990, the university initiated the Human Rights Convocation Program. Afternoon classes were canceled to encourage student, faculty, and staff participation in programs that encourage dialogue about diversity and reinforce the principle that the university is a forum for the free exchange of ideas. The convocation has been an opportunity for serious thinking by all of us about issues of social justice, human rights, and world peace.

An official university holiday was designated in 1995 to provide the university community with an opportunity to engage in a discussion about the human values that Dr. King epitomizes. These initial events have grown into a campus and community celebration that includes lectures, discussions, and cultural arts presentations. All events are free and open to the public.

If you would like more information, please contact mlk-celebration@uiowa.edu