State Representative Napoleon Nelson, who serves Cheltenham, Jenkintown and Springfield, recently published a weekly update titled “A duality of ideas” regarding tomorrow’s celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. concurrent with the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump.
From the update:
I’m not sure if it’s a twist of fate or some crazy act of God, but my message this week is both in anticipation of our returning President and in celebration of America’s one and only King.
Monday will bring pomp and circumstance in Washington, D.C. with the return of Donald Trump to the presidency and others will flock to community service projects and civil rights lectures in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
MLK and President Trump on the same day. I’m not sure if America is best represented by the duality of such extremes or the commonality of some inherent core value that I, frankly, have a hard time putting words to, but this is where we are as a nation and a community and I honor that. My love and appreciation for this country and each of our neighbors leads me to instinctively and honestly celebrate both of these men this weekend with reverence.
I will undoubtedly spend a large portion of my brain capacity to protect kids, families, workers, and this planet from what I believe will be misguided policies from an administration I disagree with, but I also expect to be pleasantly surprised by the opportunities to work with our federal governing partners to make our lives a little bit better. I will seek to tap into the sort of indomitable will of a conscientious servant leader that Dr. King modeled to speak truth when needed, but I will also be willing to lead through disruptive action as President Trump is known to do.
I am led by the motto that “Words Matter, Actions Matter, Leadership Matters.” King’s mastery of spoken word inspires us even today. Trump’s inclination towards action promises change for a world that’s seeking results. A match made in Heaven, I think NOT… But ain’t that America!
According to CBS News, the inauguration ceremony should begin around 11:30am with Trump’s swearing-in at roughly 12:00pm. The proceedings will be held in the Capitol Rotunda because of cold temperatures expected in Washington, D.C., on Monday.
Nelson goes on to note a number of MLK Day activities in greater Glenside, including:
FarmerJawn x Phillies
FarmerJawn [of Elkins Park] has teamed up with the Philadelphia Phillies for an MLK Day of Service event called “Seeds of Change.” Join for a range of engaging activities, from shirt-making to cooking to a seed workshop and more. The Phillie Phanatic will be making a special appearance around 11 a.m.
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Monday, Jan. 20
Where: Braid Mill, 441 High St, Philadelphia, PA 19144
Film Screening
Congregation Adath Jeshurun has organized a special community movie screening for MLK Day. Origin, written and directed by Ava Duvernay, looks at racism and prejudice through the lens of the caste system and will be shown at the Hiway Theater in Jenkintown. You can pre-register (recommended but not required) by scanning the QR code in the flyer or by calling (215) 635-6611, and tickets can be purchased at the door.
When: 10:30 a.m., Monday, Jan. 20
Where: Hiway Theater, 212 Old York Rd, Jenkintown, PA 19046
Arcadia University Week of Service
Click here to see the list of service opportunities available to Arcadia students, alumni, faculty, staff, and/or community members. Please send any questions to aedi@arcadia.edu.
For all the latest news, follow us on Facebook or sign up for Glenside Local’s “Daily Buzz” newsletter here.