Day of Racial Healing Workshop: "We Are the Builders"

Inspired by Deepa Iyer's ecological framework in "We Are the Builders," this workshop is an opportunity to collectively engage in reflection, dialogue, and action for racial healing and equity. Through guided exercises, group discussions, and personal storytelling, participants will explore their unique roles in the movement for social justice—whether as weavers, frontline responders, storytellers, or other archetypes identified by Iyer.

This interactive session will emphasize the importance of building interconnected and resilient communities that center healing and transformation. Together, we will deepen our understanding of systemic inequities, honor the diverse histories and experiences of racialized communities, and cultivate tools for bridging divides and fostering solidarity. We will explore immediate opportunities to bring about racial healing on the Kennesaw State University campus and in the Northwest Metropolitan Atlanta area.

We plan to engage our youth in the day of healing by showing them a Disney film called “The Color of Friendship”. This is intended to highlight the adaptation and assimilation of youth from different backgrounds into environments where they are the minority and how there is healing in self-acceptance and respect, despite any differences. Following, youth will be engaged in a guided conversation surrounding the topic and will make friendship bracelets that promote positive affirmations that they can keep for themselves or give to their peers.

This event is held in recognition of the National Day of Racial Healing, which calls on colleges and universities across the country to engage in activities, events or strategies that promote healing and foster engagement around the issues of racism, bias, inequity and injustice in our society. Students, faculty, staff and community members will discuss how to create a more just and equitable world.

Unity Event

The MLK Jr. Celebration Week will close with the unity event at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 23 at the Frank Porter Graham Student Union.

Featuring performances from various student groups and organizations, the unity event is an opportunity to appreciate the variety of cultures and backgrounds that make up the Carolina community.

Food and beverages will be provided in the Great Hall lobby at 6 p.m.

We are hosting an event for our students to learn more about racial healing

Join Save A Girl, Save A World and our Clark Atlanta University Chapter for a day of ONENESS on the campus of Clark Atlanta University.

Our students will share their thoughts on areas of inequality such as medical disparities, revocation of educational opportunities, career challenges related to breaking the glass ceiling, and political inequities. Creating interactive dialogue with students from Booker T. Washington High School and CAU scholars, facilitated by Michael Brent, with a focus on historical political perspectives.

Healing Prayer/Meditation session at noon (12pm), with the Office of Spiritual Engagement

Fireside Chat with Dr. Daniel Black, discussing racial tension and resilience.

Event Description

Join the MLK Student Planning Committee within the MLK Commemorative Celebration Committee for the inaugural MLK Student Symposium, featuring keynote speakers, presentations, entertainment and a soul food dinner as well as an informational and student organizational resource fair. A symposium packet including swag will be provided to all registered participants while supplies last.

Voices of the Dream: For Us, By Us is a powerful student-led event designed to empower students to raise their voices and advocate for themselves on critical issues faced while attending a PWI (Predominantly White Institution). Through the art of conversation and creative expression, this event offers space for authentic dialogue, allowing students to share their experiences, express their identities, discuss challenges faced within systemic barriers and promote inspiration for change. By fostering a sense of community and solidarity, For Us, By Us encourages students to take ownership of their narratives and push for a more inclusive campus environment.

This event is free to attend, but registration is required.

MLK Student Symposium Schedule

2:15 p.m. – Registration/Check-in
2:45-3:05 p.m. – Welcome, Introductions and Symposium Overview
3:05-4:05 p.m. – Group Session: “Building Community” (facilitated large group discussion)
4:10-4:15 p.m. – Transition to Breakout Session
4:15-5:15 p.m. – Breakout Sessions (select one; attendees will choose their session in advance)
Session 1: “Being the Only: Navigating the PWI Experience”
Session 2: “Checking on You: Mental Health & Wellbeing in Challenging Environments”
Session 3: “Navigating Life at a PWI: Understanding Institutional Racism and Advocating for Yourself”
5:15-5:20 p.m. – Short Break
5:20 p.m. – Soul Food Dinner (opportunity for networking and informal conversations)
5:35-6:40 p.m. – Showcase of Student Work/Performances (students present creative work that reflects the event theme)
6:40-6:45 p.m. – Closing Remarks and Thank You

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy calls us to create the Beloved Community—a world where justice, love and healing are at the center of our shared existence. As we continue the journey toward realizing this vision, spaces for authentic connection and compassionate listening are more critical than ever. Join our virtual Community Building Circle on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. PST, where we will honor Dr. King’s vision by fostering empathy, mutual respect and the transformative power of collective healing. Together, we can find strength within ourselves and others, moving closer to the Beloved Community we strive for. Register to attend.

North Hennepin Community College is excited to welcome Dr. Tameka Ellington for a virtual, 1-hour keynote for the National Day of Racial Healing. Dr. Ellington will explore Colorism and Texturism: Healing Beyond Societal Beauty Standards.

The MCC Office of Diversity, Equity and Belonging and the Center for Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation™, invite you to our National Day of Racial Healing Event. This event will feature performances from our Music Club, followed by a panel discussion on racial healing and collective responsibility. The event will conclude with an interactive activity encouraging participants to reflect on actionable steps they can take toward fostering a more equitable community.