By Rachel Noguera//Racial prejudice and brutality recently have made headlines all over the country. Hood College’s Black Student Union (BSU) has organized various programs and demonstrations, such as the Pillars of Injustice, in order to raise awareness for this issue. The multicultural affairs department of Hood decided to take a different approach by showing the Academy Award winning film, King: A Filmed Record…Montgomery to Memphis, dedicated to illustrating civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life.

Hood College hosts a celebration dedicated to Dr. Martin Luther King every year. However, this year, the College decided to show a film that included actual footage of Dr. King’s life in order to give students and non-students alike the chance to witness the effectiveness of King’s speeches and non-violent marches against racial discrimination.

“I hope that, with everything that is happening today, students will be reminded of Dr. King’s message of peace and equality through non-violence.” said Kiran Chadda, director of Hood’s multicultural affairs and international student programs, “Even today, we should remember the importance of championing violence through non-violence.”

The three hour film event was held in Hood’s Hodson Auditorium and made an impact on one student in particular. Danielle Roberts, senior age 23, had rushed over to the auditorium directly after lacrosse to see the film and was very impressed by the film’s content.

“I think [the film] was done very well.” said Roberts, “It was very touching to see someone so passionate about what they believed in. I was very inspired by the fact that they [the civil rights members] were able to remain peaceful throughout all the violence and mistreatment they endured.”

Although the film will not necessarily be shown every year, the multicultural affairs department will continue to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day every year.