About MLKConnexus - Celebrating over 25 Years of Unity and Justice
Welcome to MLKConnexus, a celebration that has stood the test of time, weaving a tapestry of unity, justice, and community engagement for a quarter-century.
Born out of a vision and a passionate commitment to social justice, MLKConnexus has become an enduring tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., community collaboration, and the ongoing pursuit of a more equitable society.
Our Roots: A Vision in 1999
In 1999, the seeds of MLKConnexus were planted by Pauline Christian, a fearless advocate for social justice and the then President of the Metro Toronto East Youth Federation. Fueled by a fervent desire to instigate positive change in the community, especially among the youth, Pauline embarked on a journey to create a platform that would transcend boundaries and inspire activism.
The Call to Action Vision
Pauline's passion for humanitarianism, stimulated by an uneven social landscape that necessitates creating lasting change, fueled her idea for MLKConnexus.
It was around the second week of December in 1998 when Pauline heard some radio announcements about Martin Luther King's birthday coming up in January 1999, which piqued her curiosity about having an event in celebration of the selfless work of Dr. King in the Civil Rights and Social Justice Movement. However, it seemed unrealistic to have a program of such magnitude planned in such a short turnaround.
Undeterred by time limitations, she approached her Youth Director, seeking support for a celebration honoring Dr. King's legacy. Though facing skepticism about the feasibility of organizing such an event in January, Pauline's determination prevailed, and she garnered full support from her Youth Director.
A Resounding Debut in 1999
With the support of Christian’s Youth Director and a dedicated troop of young people and youth leaders from across the city, the inaugural Martin Luther King Celebration (now MLKConnexus) took place at the Toronto East church on Pape Ave. The event exceeded expectations, drawing over 1000 attendees who gathered to commemorate Dr. King's profound impact on civil rights and social justice. Dr. King was considered the greatest Civil Rights leader of all time.
Keynote Speakers: Pioneers in the Community
The first Martin Luther King Celebration (MLKConnexus) set the stage for future celebrations, with Citizenship Judge Pamela Appelt delivering the keynote address. Also present was guest speaker David Mitchell, now the Assistant Deputy Minister, Ministry of Children, Community & Social Services – Youth Justice Division, who continues to be a champion in our community.
Trustees of the Martin Luther King Celebration / MLKConnexus
Over the years, the Martin Luther King Celebration (MLKConnexUs) has been in the trust of the Youth Federation, The Black Business and Professional Association, and the Educational Foundation for Children,s Care Canada, under the patronage of Oakwood University in Alabama.
Thank you for being a part of our journey.