Today we honor the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King’s commitment to racial, social, economic, and environmental justice, and his vision of the “beloved community,” call us to deepen our commitment to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive Yale focused on progress and excellence. 

This poem, and the MLK Jr. Day events organized by the Peabody Museum and supported by Belonging at Yale, may spark inspiration for you on this special day. The poem’s reference to Dr. King is moving, and it reminds us that despite our current pandemic challenges and constraints, we live under one sky, and we can join with hope to map our shared future. The Peabody events honor and amplify Dr. King’s less well-known commitment to environmental justice.

The work you do is demanding and important. I hope that you have the opportunity for some rest and reflection as we honor Dr. King and that you are inspired by his legacy as we begin the new term. 

Warm regards, 
Kimberly Goff-Crews 
Secretary and Vice President for University Life