Syracuse University prepares to host 38th annual MLK celebration

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Syracuse University is hosting its 38th annual Martin Luther King jr. Celebration Sunday evening.

The theme of this year's celebration is, 'Civil Rights and the City of Syracuse.'

The event is the largest of its kind on any college campus and seeks to honor the message and mission of Dr. King and countless other civil rights activists.

The speaker for the Celebration is Pastor Phil Turner of Bethany Baptist Church in Syracuse.

Turner has helped expand congregational impact through membership growth, facility renovations, increased access to transportation services, and improved engagement with civic organizations and community organizers.

Turner said, "My God, Dr. King, who just caused the entire world to pay attention, to justice, who caused the entire world to pay attention to equality, and caused the entire nation and even the world to pivot and to pay attention to what was taking place In this country; what was happening to African Americans in this country.”

New this year is an art gallery featuring works from local Black artists, opening at 4:15 p.m. The main program with Rev. Turner and performers will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the JMA Wireless Dome.

Ticket purchase options are as follows:

• Syracuse University staff, faculty, and the general public (dinner and program): $30
• Students (dinner and program): $15
• Main program only: FREE

Registration is required for all ticket purchase options.

Click HERE for tickets.