MSJC Hosts Inspirational Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Breakfast with Keynote Speaker Dr. Jamal Myrick
1/30/2025
MSJC honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy with its traditional MLK Day Breakfast, held on January 27 at the Menifee Valley Campus. This annual event brought together students, faculty, staff, and community members for a morning of reflection, inspiration, and renewed commitment to Dr. King's vision of justice and equality.
The event featured a powerful keynote address by Dr. Jamal Myrick, Director of African Student Programs at the University of California, Riverside. His speech, titled "Diversity, Equity, Inclusiveness: A New Name, But an Old Dream," encouraged attendees to recognize Dr. King not just as a historical figure but as a human being—one with a family, passions, and personal struggles.
Dr. Myrick shared compelling insights about Dr. King's life, reminding the audience that he was an avid dominos and spades player, the only non-president honored with a monument at the National Mall, and a Grammy Award-winning speaker. He also highlighted King's early academic achievements—entering Morehouse College at age 15 and graduating at 19—as well as his resilience in the face of adversity, having been arrested 29 times, often on trumped-up charges, like driving 30 miles per hour in a 25-mile-per-hour zone.
In discussing the modern implications of King's dream, Dr. Myrick emphasized that diversity is more than just representation. "A truly diverse team isn't just made up of different cultures—it's one where everyone has a voice," he noted. He called on students, faculty, and community leaders to live out Dr. King's values every day. Students must be the torchbearers of Dr. King's dream, actively shaping a just society. Faculty and staff must create spaces where students can thrive and feel empowered. Community leaders must be the voice of action, ensuring progress continues for the collective good.
As the event drew to a close, Dr. Myrick led the audience in a powerful affirmation, having them repeat together: "I can. I will. End of story!"
The program also included a moving performance of the Black National Anthem by Dr. Marilyn Harvey, Dean of Instruction for the Business, Technology, and Entrepreneurship Pathway. Dr. Kevin Baker, Director of Student Life & Development, introduced the keynote speaker, setting the tone for the morning's theme of unity and action.
MSJC is committed to honoring Dr. King's legacy through continued conversations, initiatives, and programs promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across its campuses.
