Event explores MLK, Ghandi’s ideologies

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On Thursday, lunch was soup with a side of civil disobedience.

Since Monday, Martin Luther King Jr. Week events have been attracting Central Michigan University faculty and students. On Thursday, at the annual Civil Rights Soup and Substance Luncheon, about 50 people sat down to soup and a recitation from philosophy and religion professor Donald Matthews.

The substance of the event was Matthews’ presentation, entitled, “What Martin Luther King Did Not Learn From Ghandi.”

The reading highlighted the belief systems of both men, and answered several questions about the ideology that ignited King’s movement and its origin in Ghandi’s teachings of civil disobedience.

“I wanted to share my research and get feedback from faculty and students,” Matthews said.

Matthews touched on the strengths and innovative thinking that inspired many people during King’s lifetime, an continue to today. He said King left the door ajar for people to realize greater truths and the need for change.

“It was insightful,” said Flint junior Andrea Stringer.

Matthews is in the process of writing a book, entitled ‘Black Karma,’ which will compare black and Indian religions and philosophies.

“He seemed very educated on the subject,” said Rockford senior Dustin Lester.

Many luncheon attendees stuck around to ask further questions after the presentation.

“We have been doing this for 12 or 13 years,” said Ulana Klymyshyn, director of the Multicultural Education Center.

The luncheon was one of the final installments of this commemorative week in remembrance of King.

university@cm-life.com