MLK Celebration Invites Ramblers to Let Their Light Shine

After students took their seats in the west gym, Leah Saahene '26 welcomed Ramblers. In a beautiful display of Loyola’s diversity, Emmary Arcineaga '25, Habeebat Alatise '26, Liam Carlton '27, and Kally Assefa '26 led prayers in Spanish, English, Amharic, and Arabic. Their multilingual prayers set a tone of inclusion and unity for the assembly.

The program opened with a beautiful musical interlude by guest vocalist Charlette Wortham as images of individuals whose mission and work had an impact on Dr. King and his vision of peace, unity, and equality—including Fannie Lou Hamer, Frederick Douglass, and Daniel O'Connell—were projected on the wall.

Ellen Osei '26 and Nahom Zigta '26 introduced the assembly with an introduction to The Beloved Community and how Dr. King's six principles for nonviolence can be used to achieve it. They explained that The Beloved Community is a global vision, in which all people can share in the wealth of the Earth. The assembly proceeded with students taking to the stage to present each principle of nonviolence.

The arts were incorporated throughout the assembly to further illustrate these principles, including a recitation by Fine Arts Teacher Mr. Keith Brown of Rosa Parks, a poem by Nikki Giovanni, and a performance by Loyola Academy's Chamber Choirs of "Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning," a gospel song that inspires determination and hope. The Loyola Academy Jazz Band, led by Band Director Mr. Sean McQuinn, also gave a rousing performance of "Feeling Good" alongside guest vocalist Crofton Coleman.

Notably, Aman Yohannes '26 reflected on the life and legacy of Dr. King in which he emphasized the power and necessity of community. "The hearts of one in unison with many can climb the highest of mountains and conquer the deepest of hatreds," he said. In his remarks, he invited his classmates to strive for a more gentle world by doing something outside of themselves.

To close the assembly, Director of Mission, Ministry, & Identity Alice Kearney Alwin '98 delved deeper into the tenants of The Beloved Community. Through a brief overview of Loyola's unique history and dedication to service, she encouraged Ramblers to get involved in programs such as the Arrupe Service Program, Summer Service & Immersion, and Ignatian Service Learning.

After a final blessing from Loyola Academy President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, Crofton and Charlette returned to the stage to lead the entire school community in singing "This Little Light of Mine," as Ramblers prepared to depart and put their love into action. In preparation for Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2025, QR codes with links to service opportunities will be made available for the Rambler community to take part in.

Many thanks to the Loyola Academy Jazz Band, Chamber Choir, and the many students who helped make this such a beautiful celebration including Mma Akela '26, Mariyam Agdubai '27, Aden Getahun '26, Jonathan Hernandez '25, Matthew Mlope '28, Noah Mayes '28, Sydney Norman '26, Mayode Oluwole '25, Princess Ezenwanne '26, Amanda Takor '25, Rachel Takyi '26, and Timnatheserah Yohannes '28.