Reinhardt students, faculty, and staff honored Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on January 19, 2026, as a day of service. The University’s African Drum and Dance Ensemble performed at the Cherokee County MLK Day Unity Breakfast in Canton, Georgia, while another group gathered on campus for a service project to give back to the local community.
To thank those who make a meaningful difference daily, Reinhardt volunteers wrote uplifting messages and assembled gift bags. By the end of the day, they distributed 300 “thank you” bags to Northside Hospital-Cherokee nurses and Hasty Elementary School teachers in Canton. The performers presented traditional West African music and dance which symbolized cooperation, strength, and communal unity.
The Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., was a pivotal figure in American history who led the broad-based civil rights movement for racial integration and racial equality in the 1950s and 1960s. By spreading encouragement and spirit through the local community, the efforts by both groups recognized Dr. King’s legacy to call and serve others. His message continues to inspire others to do what they can—where they are—to contribute positively to the world around them.
– By Suzy Alstrin
