BAM Hosts 38th annual tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King

January 16, 2024 Special from the Brooklyn Academy of Music

Mayor Eric Adams speaks in front of an image of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr. Photo by Jason Mendez/BAM

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FORT GREENE — On Monday, the Brooklyn Academy of Music hosted the 38th Annual Brooklyn Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a yearly event honoring the legacy of the civil rights leader. The momentous gathering took place in the Howard Gilman Opera House and was accessible worldwide through a live-streamed broadcast.

Presented by BAM and Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, this year’s event featured an empowering keynote speech by Freedom Reads founder Reginald Dwayne Betts. The program also featured a beautiful music performance by singer-songwriter Madison McFerrin. The award-winning Sing Harlem choir, under the direction of Amaya Knoelle Higginson, paid tribute to Dr. King through uplifting melodies, including soul-stirring performances of The Black National Anthem “Lift Every Voice” and “We Shall Overcome.”

BAM President Gina Duncan and New York Attorney General Letitia James. Photo by Jason Mendez/BAM

Influential civic leaders shared their perspectives on Dr. King’s impact on the community and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Speakers included BAM President Gina Duncan, BAM Chief Civic Engagement Officer Coco Killingsworth, lyn Borough President Reynoso, Gov. Kathy Hochul, Mayor Eric Adams, Attorney General Letitia James, Senator Charles Schumer, Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez, Council Member Crystal Hudson and NYC Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo.

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez. Photo by Jason Mendez/BAM

After the tribute, the community screening of the new Netflix biopic “Rustin” took center stage in the BAM Rose Cinemas, paying homage to the life of Bayard Rustin, a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement. The in-person introduction by Walter Naegle, Bayard Rustin’s real-life partner and executive director of the Bayard Rustin Fund, added a poignant and personal dimension to the event.

In addition, BAMkids Celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr.: Small Things in Great Ways was offered to families with young children. This program included fun activities including music, movement, and crafts centered around family unity and positive change.