The Madison College Athletics Department is excited to celebrate the birthday - and upcoming national holiday - of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the WolfPack's basketball doubleheader on January 15 against Bryant & Stratton College. The women's game will tip off 5:30 p.m., followed by the men's contest at approximately 7:30 p.m. inside H. Douglas Redsten Gymnasium. Throughout the night, there will be special performances of the national anthem, step teams, and a live DJ, as well as trivia and free popcorn. Madison College students, staff, and faculty get in free when showing their OneCard. Additionally, middle school and high school students will get free admission on January 15 when showing their school ID. 



In advance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, several Madison College men's and women's student-athletes were asked about his lasting impact and legacy. Here are their responses...

What does MLK mean to you?

Martin Luther King Jr. represents hope, courage, and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality for African Americans. His dream of a world where people are judged by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin inspires the black community to be proud of who they are. -Jaida Gaskins (WBB)

Dr. King was a hero. The courage he had to speak his mind; to use words and nonviolent protest to make the world a better place should be a role model for us all. The importance of his messages and teachings, sadly, still ring true today. I hope that we can continue to push for the equality that Dr. King had envisioned. -Ryen Jones (MBB)

Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most profound figures in the history of the United States. For example, he influenced the fight for women's rights. His philosophy and support for gender equality have had a lasting impact on the ongoing struggle for women's rights. -Hannah Solie (WBB)

One of my favorite MLK quotes is, "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." Dr. King is telling us that character, strength, endurance, or whichever way you define "measure" are best shown during challenging moments in our lives. I appreciate this quote because it's applicable to all aspects of life and those we may encounter on a daily basis. -Amir Ford (MBB)

MLK represented hope, equality, and stood firm in his belief, fighting for justice. -Amaya Travis (WBB)

What have you learned from MLK's service and how it pertains to our world today?

I've learned the importance of standing up against injustice and using peaceful methods to create change, lessons that still apply to fighting inequality today. -Amaya Travis (WBB)

I believe that our society is closer to equality than we were back when Dr. King shared his vision at the March on Washington. The work our country has done is measurable; it's part of the reason I am even in the place I am today to be able to write this and reflect on his legacy. -Jevon Campbell (MBB)

MLK taught me the power of peaceful protest and the importance of standing up for what is right. His legacy reminds me that I come from a long line of strong, resilient people, who have fought for their rights and dignity. -Jaida Gaskins (WBB)

Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and service continue to offer profound lessons that resonate deeply in today's world. His commitment to justice, equality, and nonviolence remains a powerful guide today. -Hannah Solie (WBB)

How do you carry on the legacy and teachings of MLK?

If we want to carry on Dr. King's legacy and fight for social justice, we must believe that it can happen even if it means taking actions in our own hands and believe that change is indeed possible. That means speaking up and speaking out even when it's hard. It means standing in solidarity with others, so they don't face systems of bigotry and hardship alone. -Ryen Jones (MBB)

Carrying on the legacy and teaching of Martin Luther King Jr. is very important. It's about more than just remembering his words, but about living out his principles every day in our actions, relationships, and efforts to make the world a more just and compassionate place. -Hannah Solie (WBB)

I continue to speak up for injustices when I see them occurring. Taking action and leading change is important. I enjoy elevating others.  -Amir Ford (MBB)

After hearing his story, I feel a sense of responsibility to honor his legacy by advocating for social justice and supporting the fight against systemic racism. His words and actions motivate me to dream big and remind me that change is possible. -Jaida Gaskins (WBB)

When I think about Dr. King's legacy, I think about how he dedicated his life to advancing the rights of Black people, people of color, and those living in poverty. I am mindful of how much he sacrificed and the courage it took to actively advocate for change against the status quo. -Jevon Campbell (MBB)

I strive to stand up for fairness and contribute positively to my community. -Amaya Travis (WBB)

Follow WolfPack athletics: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube