Jess Benninger ’26, assistant editor 

Rev. Dr. Bernice A. King, daughter of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and CEO of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, gave a moving talk about belonging as a part of the Social Justice Lecture Series on Friday, Sept. 15. 

King is a lawyer, activist and reverend who has dedicated much of her life to continuing her parents’ goals of justice and equity, and her presentation was highly anticipated by LVC students and faculty, as well as local community members. 

“I believe that it is important for our campus to hear King’s message of love and transformation,” Dr. Catherine Romangolo, professor of English and director of social justice and civic engagement, said. “At a time when many young people are losing hope in our ability to bridge differences and move toward a more just society, Dr. Bernice King’s perspective is invaluable.” 

The talk was sponsored by the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission and was facilitated by PHRC executive director, Chad Dion Lassiter. 

The presentation included a series of questions and answers generated by Lassiter and the LVC community. 

King discussed her past and recounted specific moments in her life that led her to advocacy. Growing up in a family that valued social justice allowed King to consider the world through a different lens, while also instilling an understanding of the influence of nonviolence. 

“We need to consider the importance of studying and practicing nonviolence,” King said. “It is the most effective way to eradicate evil and injustice.” 

On LVC’s campus, students, faculty and staff can embrace and apply King’s values of love and nonviolence to promote meaningful change that will lead to a more just world. 

To learn more about Rev. Dr. Bernice A. King and her mission, visit the King Center’s website at thekingcenter.org.