by Stacy Jackson
January 9, 2025
BAM’s annual tribute to Dr. King will gather community members, artists and civic leaders for a day of activism, music and activities.
BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music) and Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso will welcome artists, activists, and community members to BAM’s Howard Gilman Opera House on Monday, January 20, 2025, for the 39th Annual Brooklyn Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
According to a press release, the annual event is “New York City’s largest celebration honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King.” The Tribute will feature performances in remembrance of the late civil rights activist’s journey towards justice and equality. Kiri Moore of Ailey II will perform an excerpt from the former Alvin Ailey artistic director Judith Jamison’s 1984 choreographic work Divining.
The intergenerational pop-up choir community, The Fire Ensemble, will uplift attendees with its unique blend of gospel, soul, and musical theater. The choir, founded by Kentucky-born composer Troy Anthony, centers BIPOC and queer voices who perform works rooted in predominantly Black musical styles. During this year’s event, the choir welcomes community members to participate in their tribute performance. Individuals interested in lending their voices are encouraged to sign up to attend rehearsals.
BAM’s 2025 tribute to the late reverend will call on the youngest member of the Little Rock Nine, Carlotta Walls LaNier, to deliver a keynote address that will inspire audiences to remain committed to the fight for equality and remind community members and leaders of the power of collective action and resilience. The civil rights activist will share her historic journey as she challenged systemic racism and faced opposition in a fight to desegregate Central High School in 1957.
As part of the 39th Annual Brooklyn Tribute, BAM will invite attendees to enjoy free events throughout the day. To keep the celebration going, BAMKids will present If You Can’t Be the Sun, Be a Star! The interactive event invites families to participate in mural-making, a vintage photo booth and movement workshops as they reflect on Dr. King’s legacy. A screening of Ernest Cole: Lost and Found, a documentary that explores the work of South African photographer Ernest Cole, will take place at 1:00 pm at BAM Rose Cinemas.
BAM’s 39th Annual Brooklyn Tribute to Dr. King is free and open to the public. For more information on tickets, seating and a complete list of events, visit BAM.org.
Check out highlights from last year’s tribute.
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