Central State University and Wilberforce University students joined together on Jan. 21, 2019 to participate in the annual Martin Luther King Jr. march.
“The walk shows that Martin Luther King Jr. is the base of what many Greek organizations stand for,” Central State senior Courtney Jackson said. “It unites many individuals despite their differences.”
The march began in the Sunken Garden at Central State University’s main campus. The 7 degree weather didn’t dampen the spirit of the marchers. Participants sang, talked, and recited chants as they marched down Route 42 to the Greene County Courthouse in Xenia.
“I got a chance to share the experience with other Central State University students, along with Wilberforce University students,” Jackson said. “I enjoyed learning about the history of the walk and how it makes a big impact on our campuses.”
The marchers included Central State University students, faculty, staff, alumni, and local residents, including some first time, as well as veteran marchers.
“I’ve been doing the Martin Luther King March since my freshman year at Central State University,” senior Rashad Black said. “My first time attending this walk I was feeling completely unmotivated, but as we got moving it made me feel excited.”
Central State students began marching to Xenia in support of civil rights in the 1960s. The march is now typically held on Martin Luther King Day, a national holiday. Last year, students marched in February due to inclement weather on MLK Day.
Members of Central State’s Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity began the tradition, though other Greek organizations now participate. “Being a member of my fraternity makes this experience even more wonderful, because it’s always nice seeing peaceful Greek unity,” Black said.