By Rich Larson, KYMN News
The Northfield Human Rights Commission has announced it will host the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration on Monday, January 19 at 6 pm in the auditorium and lower cafeteria of Northfield High School.
According to a release issued by the HRC, the event will feature music and a keynote address from Dr. Quennel Cooper, a distinguished educational leader and passionate advocate for equity and social justice, whose “impactful career embodies the very principles Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. championed.” With over 13 years dedicated to public education, Dr. Cooper currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent at St. Louis Park Public Schools.
Dr. Cooper is widely recognized for his racial equity-driven approach. His leadership, he said, is profoundly guided by the belief that every student deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are. The HRC release said, “His dedication to empowering individuals and fostering inclusive communities makes him an inspiring voice perfectly suited to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.”
The recipient of the Northfield Human Rights Award will be announced during the celebration, as well. The award is given to a local individual, group or organization that has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the advancement of human rights in the Northfield area, through volunteer or professional efforts. Recipients from past years include Scott Wopota, the former Executive Director of Community Action Center, Emmaus Church, Northfield Superintendent of Schools Dr. Matt Hillmann, Rahmah Abdulai, and the employees of Laura Baker Services Association. The names of each past recipient, dating back to the first Human Rights Award in 1998, are engraved on a plaque in the parking lot entrance of City Hall. They are also listed on the city website.
The HRC statement says the community is invited to celebrate and honor Dr. King and his legacy. This event is family friendly and will be in English and Spanish. Sensory kits, snacks and light beverages will be available.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Reach him at rich@kymnradio.net
