Martin Luther King (MLK), Jr’s legacy continues as the MLK Ministry hosted its 11th annual Business Brunch on Saturday, January 6. This event included live music, an award ceremony, and multiple speakers throughout. The theme of this event was not only carrying on Martin Luther King, Jr’s legacy but, “civility being the solution to violence.”
The event began with a welcome speech from Brianna Jackson, a student currently enrolled at South Suburban College (SSC). Following that was a prayer from Deacon Charles Jackson and a poem from Phillip Bradley of Non-Violence Works Inc.
“This is the 11th year, and there are three things we bring people together for. Those being fellowship, networking, and education. The theme is civility, that civility is the solution to violence. On January 6, we learned that one of the key things from Dr. King is that people can agree to disagree,” said Reverend and Trustee Anthony Williams.
MLK Ministry has been hosting this event for over a decade now and every year the overall message is unity. The goal is to create a community that is open and safe for all. Getting these people all under the same roof allows that to be a possibility.
“This college has now taken the position to enlighten the community. Not only is it the role of the college to educate students, but to educate the public. I believe that institutions will do a disservice when they do not live up to their mission statement. So we are bringing all kinds of folks together that normally would never even be together to have fun,” said Williams.
Later in the event, the Keynote Speaker took the stand and gave a heartfelt message on civility and its importance. This man was Justice P. Scott Neville, Jr. of the Illinois Supreme Court. Neville was shown the utmost respect and gave an eye-opening speech to the ones present.
Following Neville’s speech, awards were given out to honor those who make this all possible. Those who received awards were given a plaque with their name and an award representing the appreciation given to them through all of this. The awards were given out to show gratitude to businesses, trustees, members of the SSC, and those who serve the community day in and day out to mold and shape youth.
“This is a wonderful event. Land O Frost has been a long-time supporter of South Suburban College. To be recognized for the Business of the Year award is a wonderful opportunity for us. I love what South Suburban College does to invest in the community for growth and development. We greatly appreciate all of the support that they give the community,” said Kelli Howard, vice president of supply chain for Land O Frost.
In closing, the President of SSC, Dr. Lynette Stokes made her final remarks. She thanked everyone in attendance for making this possible and showing that they care about their community and strive for change as time goes on.
For more information on South Suburban College visit ssc.edu
