KDL Receives Special Proclamation

KDL kicked off a week-long celebration honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with an event featuring Documentary Film Producer and University of Kansas professor Dr. Randal Jelks who provided a moving narrative on the highlights from his book Letters to Martin. 

At the event, KDL received the following proclamation, signed by State Representative Kristian C. Grant, State Senator Winnie Brinks, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II and Govenor Gretchen Whitmer:

LET IT BE KNOWN, that it is with deep appreciation that we commend Kent District Library for their work on the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Week of Action, which will take place January 15^th to January 19^th, 2024. Through this work, they are committing themselves to the values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by helping foster a community that embraces diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice.

The MLK Week of Action is an effort by Kent District Library which allows our community to pause, reflect, and engage in activities that promote unity, understanding, and positive change. They do this through educational community sessions focusing on the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., providing valuable insights into the historical context and relevance of his work. These sessions serve as an open platform for honest discussions, allowing community members to share their perspectives, experiences, and visions for a more inclusive future.

Furthermore, Kent District Library staff spearhead volunteer efforts at 20 different non-profits across Kent County during this week of action. More than 300 individuals take part in this work that seeks to embody the values that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood for. There is so much progress that has been made thanks to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., there is still work to be done to continue his mission and help all those in need in our community. The staff at Kent District Library create unbelievable positive change in our communities through this Week of Action thanks to their commitment to his ideals.  

IN SPECIAL TRIBUTE, therefore, this document is signed and dedicated to commemorate Kent District Library’s efforts during the week of January 15^th to January 19^th, the MLK Week of Action. We thank them for their commitment to the values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and their services to Kent County and the communities we foster together.