Jesse Jackson to speak at University of Utah Martin Luther King celebration

SALT LAKE CITY — The University of Utah will present its 29th annual weeklong celebration of the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., Jan. 19-24.

A keynote address by civil rights activist the Rev. Jesse Jackson will take place Thursday, Jan. 24, at noon at the Jon M. Huntsman Center on the U. campus.

“We feel very fortunate to have Rev. Jackson deliver the keynote address for this year’s MLK celebration,” said U. President David W. Pershing. “As a civil rights leader who worked alongside Martin Luther King, his presence will lend a special significance this year as we recognize the contributions and legacy of King.”

“The University of Utah couldn’t be more excited to have the esteemed Rev. Jesse Jackson headline our MLK celebrations,” said Octavio Villalpando, associate vice president for equity and diversity at the U. “The fervor and energy generated by the presence of such an important social leader serves to highlight the importance of equity on our campus.”

Other events for the week include a cultural performance, campus and community panel discussion, film screening, community service day, a rally and “marade” (march parade), and the 2013 Youth Leadership Awards. For more information, visit www.diversity.utah.edu or call 801-581-7569.