In the diverse communities of Farmington and Farmington Hills, Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and legacy aren’t just important…they’re essential. Dr. King's unwavering fight for justice, equality, and human rights continues to guide us as we work toward creating a more inclusive society. His vision of a world free from racial discrimination, built on mutual respect, challenges us to confront the systemic inequities we still face from day to day. His teachings remind us of the power of open authentic dialogue, real understanding, and unity, pushing us to celebrate diversity and work together to build a community where everyone can not only see themselves, but actualize and live out their purpose. As we honor Dr. King's legacy, let’s take time to reflect on his values and recommit to building a future rooted in fairness, equity, and compassion for all.

Join Farmington Community Library for a weekend-long celebration of the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library events are always free to the public and you do not need a library card to attend! All of the MLK Weekend events will take place at the Library’s FCL Farmington Hills location at 32737 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills, MI 48334.

The Henry Ford Protest Button Collection

Saturday, January 18, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Auditorium
AND Virtual on Zoom

Join Heather Bruegl, Curator of Political and Civic Engagement at the Henry Ford, for a presentation on the Henry Ford's Protest Button Collection. She will show highlights from the collection covering a range of decades and movements and discuss their historical significance. After the program participants will have the opportunity to create their own protest button! Registration is only required for virtual attendance to receive the Zoom meeting link.

Sponsored by the Farmington Friends of the Library.

Movie Talks: Selma (Ages 18+)

Sunday, January 19, 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Auditorium

We will watch the film Selma (2014); afterwards the floor will be opened for discussion. You don’t have to be a professional movie critic to attend Movie Talks! This will be a fun and thoughtful environment open to all adults who have a love for watching films! You are also welcome to bring your own snacks! This program is intended for adults ages 18+. Registration is preferred.

Film Synopsis: "The marches from Selma, Ala., to Montgomery to secure voting rights for Black Americans are depicted in this docudrama set during the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, and which focuses on the actions of Martin Luther King, Jr."

Genre: Drama
Run time: 2 hours 8 mins
Rated PG-13: for brief strong language, a suggestive moment, disturbing thematic material, and violence.

Sign-Making

Monday, January 20, 10-11 a.m.
Lobby

Planning to join us for the Legacy March at 11 a.m.? Come early and make a sign for the march with us. Posterboards, sign handles, and markers will be provided. Find us on the main floor, near the entrance.

Legacy March

Monday, January 20, 11-11:45 a.m.

Parking Lot

A tradition dating back over 20 years, the Dr. King Legacy March is a favorite activity of families in the community. With our signs and posters, we will walk down the sidewalk along 12 Mile Road. Please wear appropriate clothing for cold temperatures and icy sidewalks.

Hot chocolate will be available in the lobby after the event!

FPS Dance Company

Monday, January 20, 12:30-1 p.m.
Auditorium

FCL proudly presents the students at the Farmington Public School's Dance Company, led by Toi Banks. High schoolers from North Farmington and Farmington High School will capture the spirit of the day with a contemporary performance that you won't want to miss.

FPS Student Panel

Monday, January 20, 6-7 p.m.
Auditorium
AND Virtual on Zoom

You're invited to an inspiring panel discussion with local students as they share their unique perspectives on identity, equity, and belonging. Our panelists from the Farmington IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Acceptance) Clubs represent a variety of voices from across Farmington Public Schools, and they’re ready to dive into a discussion about Dr. King's enduring legacy and their dreams for the future. Moderated by Greg Smith, FPS Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, this panel will be a celebration of youth voices and visions for a more inclusive world. Registration is only required for virtual attendance to receive the Zoom meeting link.

MLK Celebration: Art Contest Award Ceremony

Monday, January 20, 7-7:30 p.m.
Auditorium

Immediately following the FPS Student Panel, the 8 winners of the MLK Art Contest will be announced and prizes awarded. The Art Contest is generously sponsored by Farmington Hills Special Services.

Never Give Up - A Special MLK Day Talk with Poet Joel Fluent Greene

Monday, January 20, 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Auditorium
AND Virtual on Zoom

Join FCL for our Martin Luther King Jr Day (MLK) Weekend of celebrations. For today’s program we have Joel Fluent Greene, an Emmy Award-winning Poet and Spirit of Detroit Awardee. During this special MLK Day talk and performance, Joel will discuss his almost 30-year journey as a working creative in Detroit, and what it means to be a “Bridge” and not a “Gatekeeper.” From hosting open mics at Detroit’s legendary Cafe Mahogany to writing commissioned work for the Detroit Lions, Delta Airlines, the Detroit Tigers, and more...Joel’s story is one of finding your footing and never giving up. The evening will also feature a short poetry reading. Registration is only required for virtual attendance to receive the Zoom meeting link.

Books have a unique power to foster understanding, empathy, and connection, making them a transformative tool for racial healing. By amplifying diverse voices and sharing lived experiences, literature helps readers navigate the complexities of racial identity and confront their own biases. Stories from varied perspectives challenge stereotypes, deepen appreciation for human experiences, and open the door to meaningful conversations about race, identity, and systemic injustices.

Reading diverse stories not only broadens perspectives but also nurtures empathy, paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate community. By engaging with these narratives, we take collective steps toward understanding, reconciliation, and healing that go beyond individual experiences.

Here are some book recommendations from our early learning experts to enjoy with your little one as you explore the journey of racial healing together:

• The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld

• The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson

• When We Were Alone by David A. Robertson

• Drum Dream Girl by Margarita Engle

• Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman

• Mixed: A Colorful Story by Arree Chung

• Whoever You Are by Mem Fox

• You Matter by Christian Robinson

• Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña

• All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold

These books offer a wonderful way to spark meaningful conversations and nurture understanding in young readers, building a foundation for a more inclusive future.

The National Holocaust Day of Remembrance is a solemn and meaningful opportunity for communities of all backgrounds to reflect on the horrors of the Holocaust and honor the millions of innocent lives lost. This day compels us to confront the devastating consequences of hatred, prejudice, and discrimination, reminding us of our shared responsibility to build a more just and compassionate world.

As we come together in remembrance, we are called to reflect on the enduring importance of diversity, dignity, and respect for all individuals. The Day of Remembrance challenges us to stand against intolerance and promote human rights, using the lessons of the past to guide us toward a more inclusive future.

Check out the United States Holocaust Museum website to learn more.

www.ushmm.org/remember/international-holocaust-remembrance-day

For more information, please contact Gregory Smith, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

for Farmington Public Schools at gregory.smith@fpsk12.net

The government has made legal provisions to ensure that no person is discriminated against on the basis of race, color, natural origin, sex, age, or disability. In order to protect these rights and assure compliance, the Farmington Public Schools District has appointed Mr. Christopher O’Brien as Coordinator of Title IX and Section 504 and Mr. Greg Smith as Coordinator of Title VI, the Age Discrimination Act, and Title II. Inquiries concerning the application of, or grievances for, any of these regulations should be addressed to: christopher.obrien@fpsk12.net or gregory.smith@fpsk12.net.