Rev. Dr. Carlos Perkins, pastor of Bethel Cathedral AME Church, will be the keynote speaker for the Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) 40th annual tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The theme for 2021 is “A Pandemic of Racism: The Struggle for Equity Continues!” and the program will air 10-11 a.m. Jan. 15 at www.myips.org.
Taylor Hall, a political activist, musician and 2018 graduate of Crispus Attucks High School, will present the message to the youth and her song “I Can’t Breathe” will be featured. Performances from past celebrations will be featured. Supt. Aleesia Johnson and school board president Evan Hawkins will speak about King’s impact and legacy. Masters of ceremonies are Dr. Patricia Payne, director of the IPS Racial Equity Office, and Annmarie Byers, senior equity coordinator.
“In the perilous times our country is now experiencing, where unchartered waters continue to challenge us at every turn, it is critical that Indianapolis Public Schools continues to present this annual program designed to help our students, staff and community understand the importance of applying Dr. King’s teachings to our own lives so that his words become our actions. Time is of the essence and the urgency of now looms before us,” Payne said.
