January 27, 2006

Lessons from a legacy: Martin Luther King remembered

As with many traditions held at the MGH, the annual Martin Luther King, Jr., celebration has become a favorite for many employees. The annual event provides an opportunity to hear the insights of prominent guest speakers who share their views of the legacy of the slain civil rights pioneer. Hubie Jones, (shown below), a well-known and revered educator, community activist and Boston-area civic leader, shared the lessons he has learned from King at this year's presentation, held Jan. 20 in the O'Keeffe Auditorium.

Jones spoke of the importance of recognizing Martin Luther King Day not just as a holiday but as an opportunity to remember this nation's past and to look ahead to the future. "This holiday is not a gift but rather a hard-won achievement," said Jones. "No other American hero in our history has been honored by a national holiday — not even our greatest presidents. We should not take this holiday for granted but use it as a time of reflection and an opportunity to rededicate ourselves to King's work for the future."

Jones outlined five lessons that everyone can learn from King's legacy. The first is that all citizens can make a difference. He noted that King was not an elected official but a citizen who took his responsibilities seriously and collaborated with others to help create a better world. The second lesson is to respond positively when called upon to serve. He recalled that King at first was reluctant to lead the civil rights movement but answered the call when leadership was needed. Maintaining clear ethical standards is the third lesson learned from King, who always promoted peace, love and goodwill rather than hate and violence. Jones stated that King led a passion-driven life, emphasizing the importance of following dreams and pursuing interests and talents as the important fourth lesson. The fifth lesson is the right for every citizen to have a voice, to stand up for beliefs and to not remain silent — otherwise democracy is put at risk. "It is important to engage each other in civil discourse to have any kind of true democracy. Change starts with each of us," he said.

Jeff Davis, senior vice president for MGH Human Resources, served as master of ceremonies, and Peter L. Slavin, MD, president of the MGH, spoke about the hospital's progress in diversity efforts for employees and patients. Carlyene
Prince-Erickson, director of MGH Employee Education and Leadership Development, introduced the MGH Black Achievers for 2006 — Glenda Best of the Wellman Center for Photomedicine and Courtneay Small of Clinical Pathology.

Above, the Voices of MGH Choir sings for the crowd.

The Roland Hayes School of Music Chorus gave a rousing musical performance of songs such as "Lift Every Voice and Sing" and "I Have a Dream." And back by popular demand, the Voices of MGH — a choir comprised of MGH employees —
performed "We are the Children of One World," which they debuted at the Association of Multicultural Members of Partners (AMMP) Martin Luther King Day event held Jan.13.