February 4, 2005

Martin Luther King, Jr. remembered in special celebration

Alvin F. Poussaint, MD, marched with Martin Luther King, Jr., in one of the most famous civil rights demonstrations of the 1960s — the Selma, Alabama march that ended violently and later became known as "Bloody Sunday." Poussaint shared memories and photographs of those turbulent times in American history at the sixth annual Partners celebration of the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., held Jan. 28 in the O'Keeffe Auditorium.

Poussaint (left), who is a professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, gave a fascinating presentation, recounting what it was like to be a black American during the civil rights movement. He also reflected on his experiences as a black physician who gave medical care to the activists participating in the often-violent demonstrations of that time. Pouissant showed a series of photos that he took of the March on Montgomery, depicting King and other famous activists such as the celebrated singer-actor Harry Belafonte and noted author James Baldwin.

Poussaint also echoed King's message of nonviolence in handling human conflict. "Martin Luther King was not just a black leader," said Poussaint. "He was a leader for all, and we should remember him for standing for nonviolence in approaching life and handling conflict among individuals, among states and among nations. And as doctors, nurses and healers, we play an important part in the movement of nonviolence and peace."

Other highlights of the event included a special welcome by Peter L. Slavin, MD, president of the MGH, who spoke about the hospital's progress in diversity efforts for patients and employees. Helen Witherspoon, program manager for Training and Workforce Development, introduced local performer Terry Gersham, who sang rousing renditions of "Lift Every Voice and Sing," "Lean On Me" and "We Shall Overcome." And Carlyene Prince-Erickson, director of MGH Employee Education and Leadership Development, introduced the four YMCA Black Achievers for 2005 — Ivonny Niles of MGH Orthopaedics, Larry Washington of MGH Police and Security, Debra Earls of Partners Human Resources, and Eddy Rospide of Partners Information Systems.