Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration 2025: The Darkness at Midnight.

Boston University’s Howard Thurman Center and the City of Boston invite you to join the annual celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Saturday, January 25th at 12pm at Boston University’s Metcalf Ballroom. This year’s theme is “The Darkness At Midnight,” which takes inspiration from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s 1962 speech, “A Knock At Midnight.” We are honored to welcome Cole Arthur Riley, acclaimed writer, poet, and New York Times best-selling author of This Here Flesh and Black Liturgies, as the keynote speaker. The program will also include remarks by Boston University President Dr. Melissa L. Gilliam, conversation with BU School of Theology Associate Professor of New Testament Dr. Shively T.J. Smith, readings from BU students from Boston, and musical selections performed by the Hamilton-Garrett Youth Choir. This event is co-sponsored by BU Libraries, Boston University Government & Community Affairs, and the Boston University Dean of Students. Let’s reflect, engage, and be inspired by the work and words of those who carry Dr. King’s dream forward together!