More than 100 students’ voices rose in the chorus of “This Little Light of Mine” to remember Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday night.
The festivities were part of a candlelight vigil held by the National Pan-Hellenic Council as part of the University’s Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration.
The crowd sang “We Shall Overcome” and “This Little Light of Mine” during its processional down Dalrymple Drive and behind the Law School. Crystal Fisher, Pan-Hellenic’s vice president who coordinated the event, said the songs were chosen because they represent the spirit of the Civil Rights movement.
Keynote speaker Nicholas Duffel, psychology junior, shared his experience of being biracial with attendants and how that has given him a distinct perspective on King and his principles.
“Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred,” Duffel said, quoting King.
Duffel stressed the importance of remembering what people alive during the civil rights movement endured while fighting for equality.
“Lots of people lose focus of what today truly means — to make a difference,” Duffel said.
Spanish junior Kellie Colar read King’s “Pledge of Nonviolence” before the lighting of the candles.
Christopher Jones, mathematics senior, has attended the event for four years. He said the vigil is a time when people of all races can share in King’s achievements.
The event ended with food and performances in the Live Oak Lounge. Gia Eason and Taylor James-Lightner sang for guests, and Theodore Burnell Williams III recited an excerpt from King’s “I Have A Dream” speech.
The National Pan-Hellenic Council spent about $250 on the event to cater the reception. The Office of Multicultural Affairs supplied the candles, and LSUPD guided the processional for free.
Chancellor Michael Martin spoke at the vigil in 2010 but said he chose not to speak this year because other people should have the chance to speak and honor the memory of Dr. King.
King’s commemoration at the University will continue Jan. 25, when award-winning American poet Nikki Giovanni discusses diversity and Jan. 26, when students put on an arts showcase.
 
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Contact Marylee Williams at [email protected]