Weather Washes Out MLK Celebrations in Grand Rapids

40th Annual Event at Wealthy Theatre Cancelled

A major event honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Grand Rapids had to be postponed due to severe weather conditions. This was set to be the 40th year of the celebration at the Wealthy Theatre, organized collaboratively by Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Valley State University (GVSU), and Davenport University. The organizers have promised to reschedule the event soon.

Other January 20th Events Affected

The bad weather also disrupted other planned events for January 20th. Derrick Johnson, the president of the NAACP, was scheduled to speak at both GVSU and Davenport University. His talks were to focus on how Dr. King’s legacy continues to inspire the NAACP, the largest civil rights organization in the United States.

GVSU’s MLK Commemoration Week Kicked Off

At GVSU, Johnson was supposed to inaugurate their MLK Commemoration Week. The event was planned for January 20th at 10 a.m. in the Kirkhof Center’s Grand River Room. GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella was set to engage in a discussion with Johnson.

Rescheduling Plans

While the weather disruption was disappointing, the positive news is that the event will be rescheduled. This demonstrates the community’s commitment to honoring Dr. King’s legacy in Grand Rapids.