Marching for the Common Good: UIW to Participate in San Antonio’s 39th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. March
On August 28, 1963, thousands of people took to the streets of Washington, D.C. as they advocated for civil and economic rights at the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Neighbors gathered together, seeking to inspire change that would result in a more just and equal world for all. Amongst these attending march participants was prominent civil rights activist, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King (MLK) Jr., who later that day delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. King was met with thunderous applause and cheers as he called for racial justice and equality in America.
Today, nearly 58 years after his tragic and sudden assassination, the nation honors King’s life and legacy by continuing efforts to bring King’s dream to fruition. Every year during the month of January, many U.S.-based and global cities celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which often includes the coordination of marches. The City of San Antonio is home to one of the largest MLK Marches in the nation, welcoming thousands of participants every year as they reflect on civil rights and social justice throughout history and in present times.
This year marks San Antonio’s 39th annual MLK March and is being hosted in partnership with the San Antonio Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission, which is chaired by University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) associate professor of Criminal Justice, Dr. Doshie Piper.
“Honoring the life and legacy of a civil rights icon reminds us that the struggle for justice has always been collective and unfinished,” expressed Piper. “This gathering creates space for learning, connection and renewal. I hope participants walk away with a deeper understanding of our shared history and a renewed commitment to building the kind of beloved community that these leaders envisioned—one rooted in dignity, equity and care for one another.”
UIW will once again be participating in this year’s march, welcoming students, faculty and community members to join in the day’s activities. Associate vice president of Mission 
and Ministry and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Dr. Arturo Chavez, and the Ettling Center for Civic Leadership and Sustainability (ECCLS) will lead UIW community members seeking to be a part of the day.
“The University of the Incarnate Word has had students, faculty and staff participate in this annual march for several years,” noted ECCLS Director, Dr. Ricardo Gonzalez. “At times, we have had the largest collegiate participation of community members participating in the march. We invite all members of the UIW community to come out and make their presence known. In short, we are blessed to live in a country where we can openly walk and make our voices heard on issues such as life and dignity of the human person, support for those that are 
poor and vulnerable and solidarity for our community for the common good”
Transportation to and from the event will be provided from the UIW Broadway campus to registered UIW-affiliated participants. Participants will meet in front of the Convocation Center at 8 a.m. and will depart at 8:45 a.m.
“The spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr. is alive and strong in our San Antonio community, marking the 39th year of one of the largest marches in the country,” noted Chavez. “This year is especially important to witness to our UIW Mission, values and Catholic Social Teachings. This year is also special because Dr. Doshie Piper is the Chair of the Dr. MLK Commission that organizes the march and celebration. It is such an honor for our UIW community. Let’s march! It’s not too late to register."