|
|
|
A student shares his thoughts about
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. | |
GREENFIELD, NH- On Monday, January 21st students and staff of Crotched Mountain School held an assembly in remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Principal Archie Campbell opened the ceremony by reminding the audience that Dr. King wasn't just fighting for racial equality, but for the equality of all people, no matter what their differences are.
"Today we gather to recognize and to celebrate Civil Rights Day in New Hampshire and particularly we recognize the life of Martin Luther King," remarked Archie. "He was a man who stood up for many when others did not. He spoke up for others when many were silent. He was visible when many were invisible. And, in the process, he changed our world."
Maureen Gaynor, a graduate of Crotched Mountain School, was the keynote speaker. After graduating from Crotched Mountain School, Maureen went on to attend New Hampshire Technical College in Manchester and graduated from there in 1990 with a General Associates degree in Building Construction Technology. In 1993, she graduated from Roger Williams University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Studies.
Throughout her life, Maureen has been an advocate for people with disabilities. Her first novel, entitled Always A Place, will soon be published.
Gaynor's message to the students was one of hope. She pointed out that, while people with differences still struggle for acceptance in America today, society is making strides in the fight for equality. She reminded her audience that Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama's presidential campaign is an example of how America is breaking down discrimination barriers.
Maureen went on to offer advice to the students to encourage them to press on. "Life doesn't always turns out the way you want it to," she explained. "If you make a difference by what you do, then enjoy your life. Don't stop learning, and don't settle for less than you want."
After Maureen finished, several students shared their thoughts about Dr. Martin Luther King and equality. Here are quotes from some of our students:
- "People need to respect other people who are different."
- "Don't punish other people just because they are different from you."
- "... even under the blanket of hatred and bigotry, Martin Luther King, Jr. wanted this nation to live up to its own ideal. The ideal that 'all men are created equal'; no men or women should be discriminated against just because of their beliefs. . . . The day we all can live side by side together peacefully as a nation, is the day Dr. King's dream will be fulfilled."
Crotched Mountain is a charitable organization employing nearly 900 people. Its mission is to serve individuals with disabilities and their families, embracing personal choice and development, and building communities of mutual support. Crotched Mountain provides specialized education, rehabilitation, community, and residential support services for more than 2,000 consumers, including individuals with disabilities and the elderly, living in New England and New York . For more information about Crotched Mountain please visit their web site: www.crotchedmountain.org.
(END) |