EIU Media Relations

Annual MLK Jr. Candlelight Vigil March Planned at EIU

The Zeta Nu chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. will host its 26^th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Candlelight Vigil March and Tribute Monday, Jan. 21, on the campus of Eastern Illinois University.

The event begins at 5:30 p.m. with a march -- punctuated with the singing of inspirational hymns -- from the Thomas Hall lobby (2120 Seventh St.) to the Grand Ballroom, located in Eastern’s MLK Jr. Union.  The program there will begin at approximately 6 p.m.

According to Leon Fields, Zeta Nu chapter president, the annual event honors “one of the most prolific men to have ever walked this planet.”

“This is one of the many ways we repay our debts for his contributions to all mankind,” Fields said, adding that since 1987,  between 100 and 200 students, faculty, family and friends have come and supported the vigil and the program annually.  Many join in the march; however, those who wish may participate in the Grand Ballroom activities only.

This year, Fields continued, the program will be much more interactive, displaying the talents of several EIU students, many of whom are not directly associated with the fraternity.  Students have submitted essays, and singers, speakers and others with different talents have all committed to participating in the program.

Students and faculty from Eastern will also be recognized by the men of the Zeta Nu chapter for individual accomplishments and be presented awards such as the humanitarian award, excellence awards and a few others, based on individual achievements.  Scholarships will also be awarded.