The Griot sponsored luncheon event that marked the conclusion of this years Martin Luther King Week, titled “Where Do We Go from Here,” provided a crucial platform for addressing actionable steps toward equality within Bucknell University. As participants gathered to share a meal in the Terrace Room of the ELC, the atmosphere was imbued with the progressive and community-building ideas, echoing Dr. King’s belief in the power of collective action. Against the backdrop of Dr. King’s poignant question, “Chaos or community?” attendees engaged in intimate table conversations aimed at charting a course for sustained social movements and enhanced community cohesion at Bucknell.
Bringing together faculty, staff, students, and members of the Lewisburg community, the luncheon exemplified Bucknell’s commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue and tangible progress toward equity and justice. During the discussions we recognized the challenges we have faced when implementing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and questions of whether that’s even the real solution to inequality at predominantly white institutions. By facilitating these discussions, the event underscored a dedication to not only commemorating Dr. King’s legacy on one day annually, but also translating his ideals into concrete strategies for institutional transformation. As participants exchanged ideas and perspectives over lunch, the Griot-sponsored event served as a forum for collective reflection and proactive engagement in the ongoing pursuit of equality within the Bucknell community.