Mbao High School Celebrates Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Mbao High School Celebrates Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Dpt of State)

Mbao High School Celebrates Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Dpt of State)

January 16 marked Martin Luther King, Jr. Day for the United States: a federal holiday celebrated since January 20, 1986 on the Monday in January closest to the birthday of the famous civil rights leader January 15, 1929.  For the occasion, U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Officer Kristin M. Kane visited Mbao High School where she had been invited by the school’s English club.  The day-long event was conducted almost entirely in English.  The Vice Principal opened the day by pointing out the necessity for the civics education, a sense of responsibility, and a spirit of peace and tolerance among young people, as citizens of tomorrow. Ms. Kane explained what MLK Day means to Americans, and the historical legend Dr. King left behind – not only for the United States but for other countries around the world, including some in Africa.   With elections in Senegal approaching, Ms. Kane took the occasion to express the Embassy’s wishes for peaceful elections and sustainable development in the country.  She also pointed out the major role students and young adults could play as agents of peace in their schools, their family and their community.  King’s pivotal and unanimously acknowledged role earned him the honor of being the only historical figure of civil society to have a national memorial in Washington DC, beside Presidents Lincoln, Jefferson, and Washington. 

The day included many activities by the teachers and students of Mbao high school, including
- A film depicting Dr. King’s life
- A speech on the life of Dr. King
- A theatrical presentation showing the Rosa Parks-led bus boycott
- A rallying speech depicting Dr. King’s words

National TV (RTS) and a private TV (Canal Info News), along with the Senegalese Associated Press wire service celebrated along with the participants a dream that can come true : Building together  a society that achieves peaceful dialogue and mutual respect, beyond the political or social differences.