President Urges Members to Pay Tribute to King
Says programs being carried out in King's spirit
On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s international president Barbara A. McKinzie urged the 200,000 members of the organization to celebrate his life and participate in activities saluting his legacy. She noted that a cross section of leaders—including members of the Sorority—would converge upon Memphis and Atlanta to participate in the events surrounding this historic day.
“Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. continues to be the civil rights standard bearer whose courage, conviction and resolve are a source of inspiration and pride to the world,” said McKinzie. As we approach the anniversary of his death, let us all reflect on his greatness and the legacy he left behind.”
McKinzie praised the organizers of the 40th anniversary salute and encouraged Alpha Kappa Alpha members—and all citizens—to visit the exhibits and participate in the forums that will provide more insight into King’s life.
She confirmed that members will be attending and leading events as a show of their reverence of this civil rights hero who, she said, “was taken from us too soon.”
McKinzie urged citizens to take the occasion to recommit to the concept of civil rights and human rights, to which Dr. King was deeply committed. She also reminded everyone of the work that still remains.
“While America has made progress, more has to be done to bridge the gap that separates blacks and whites,” observed McKinzie. She noted that her administration has focused on economics through her ESP program, which stands for Economics, Service and Partnerships. Alpha Kappa Alpha, she noted, has launched an intense offensive to close the gap through innovative programs being carried out in the 975 chapters worldwide. She added that the Sorority has establishedthese ESP initiatives in the “spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”