John Thorne said systemic and institutional racism can permeate the hallowed halls of the church, and it is up to congregations and pastors to ensure their place of worship is inviting.

This year’s Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Symposium keynote features two speakers, Gloria House, poet, essayist, educator and human rights activist, and Malik Yakini, co-founder and Executive Director of the Detroit Black Community Food Security Network. The 2021 Keynote Memorial Lecture begins on Monday, Jan. 18 at 10 a.m.

To commemorate the legacy of civil rights leader the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., the University of Michigan’s 2020 MLK Symposium will focus on the complexities associated with diversity and highlighting the diversity within marginalized communities.