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Civil Rights leader Rev. Samuel "Billy" Kyles (pictured left), pastor of the Monumental Baptist Church in Memphis, Tenn., delivered the keynote address on Monday, Jan. 21, to kick off a week-long celebration of the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Rev. Kyles participated in many civil rights struggles throughout the country. He spent time with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in his last hour and was an eyewitness to his assassination. Rev. Kyles is a recognized resource of information on the Civil Rights movement and has been honored with the Tennessee Living Legend award.

In addition to Rev. Kyles' keynote address, more than a dozen elementary students enrolled in a drama course sponsored by High Jump, a tuition-free academic enrichment program based at the Latin School of Chicago, performed a dramatic presentation entitled, "Make the Dream a Reality," which emphasized that everyone has the potential to make the world a better place. Habeas Chorus, a Law School student vocal ensemble, also performed.

Other events that took place throughout the week included a speech by Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. in Lincoln Hall on Tuesday (pictured right). His speech, "A More Perfect Union: Advancing American Rights," was followed by a book signing in the Atrium.

A panel discussion about diversity in law firms was held on Wednesday and discussion about public housing was held on Thursday.

Each year the DREAM Committee works with other student organizations to plan a week of events to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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