Join a powerful evening with filmmakers Karen Hayes and Pamela Tom as they discuss their film “A Better Way: James Lawson, Architect of Nonviolence.” Through select clips, they’ll share insights into the filmmaking process, their time with Dr. James Lawson, and the impact of his work on the broader justice movement. The event will be emceed by Dr. Phillis Sheppard, E. Rhodes, and Leona B. Carpenter, Chair of Religion, Psychology, and Culture and Executive Director of the James Lawson Institute for the Research and Study of Nonviolent Movements, offering an engaging conversation on the legacy of nonviolence and its relevance today. This special program will kick off Vanderbilt’s 2025 MLK Commemorative series. Don’t miss this meaningful celebration of justice and leadership!
Wear your finest black tie attire and get ready to mingle with like-minded individuals passionate about equality and justice at the Nashville Parthenon. Enjoy live music and captivating performances throughout the evening, and indulge in a delectable array of culinary delights. This carefully curated program will honor Dr. King's remarkable impact and inspire continued work. The IMF Gala proudly supports the IMF Community Fund Education Reserve, which is dedicated to fostering future leaders to champion social justice advocacy.
Join the Scarritt Bennett Center for the Labor & Human Rights Breakfast, a commemorative event that honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy as a champion of labor and human rights. This event will explore the vital intersection of labor, faith, and civil rights. Scheduled for MLK Day 2025, the breakfast will be hosted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and organized by the Central Labor Council of Nashville & Middle Tennessee, in collaboration with the Tennessee Human Rights Commission.
Join the Nashville Symphony for an unforgettable evening honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at our 31st annual MLK Celebration. This inspiring event will feature the powerful voices of the Celebration Chorus and Celebration Youth Chorus, along with four-time GRAMMY®-nominated artist and country music trailblazer Mickey Guyton.
Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to take part in the 2025 Nashville MLK Day March and Convocation, celebrating 40 years of honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Nashville! Transportation will be available, and Vanderbilt attendees who register to attend will receive a free MLK Day hoodie. Vanderbilt community members will march together with members of the greater Nashville community, from the Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church to the TSU Gentry Center.
The MLK Joint Day of Service is an annual celebration of Dr. King’s legacy. Students from all of Nashville’s colleges and universities will come together at Meharry Medical College for a kickoff event and then volunteer at community service projects across the city.
The Civil Rights Collection at the Nashville Public Library features black & white photos from the Civil Rights era in Nashville and a circular table in the center of the room representing the lunch counters of Nashville - locations of many sit-in protests that fueled the Civil Rights Movement.