Maurion Jamison
palmettoreport@gmail.com

(Rock Hill, S.C.) — Members of the Winthrop University community recognized the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday with a candlelight vigil and program honoring the legacy of Dr. King.

The event, hosted by the Xi Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity at Winthrop, brought together students, faculty and community members for a night of reflection and unity. It was part of a week of events at Winthrop to honor King.

Participants stood together holding candles as they listened to messages about service, justice and the lasting impact of King’s leadership during the Civil Rights Movement.

The vigil created a moment for attendees to pause and reflect on the progress made toward equality, while also recognizing the work that still remains.

Knowledge Bowens, a member of the Xi Phi Chapter, said the annual event is designed to educate the campus community and encourage students to carry forward King’s mission of service.

“The MLK service event is an annual service event at Winthrop,” Bowens said. “What it does is spread knowledge to the Winthrop community. It also spreads service to those who weren’t aware of what MLK did specifically and all that he stood for.”

Organizers said the vigil was not only a tribute to King’s life, but also a reminder for students to stay engaged in their communities through volunteerism, leadership and civic involvement.

The event Jan. 19 also included guest speaker is Jacobe Reid, a fraternity member and Chester Middle School teacher, and concluded with a moment of silence.

Organizers said they encourage students to continue honoring King’s legacy by serving others and working toward positive change throughout the year.