Grand Valley State University will kick off its Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebrations on Jan. 20 with a keynote address delivered by Chuck D, who is known as an author, political activist and founder of the rap group Public Enemy.

The presentation will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the Grand River Room of the Kirkhof Center, just after a silent march starting at 1 p.m. outside of Zumberge Hall. Chuck D will also be the keynote speaker during the 28th annual community celebration at 6:30 p.m. at Grand Rapids Community College.

Prior to the presentation, GVSU will host social justice activities such as a poverty simulation, Upcycling: “Crafting for Our Community,” a film series and a marathon reading session. These events will run from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and will be offered again from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The afternoon activities will include a panel discussion.

All participants in the campus events are welcome to a lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. in the Grand River Room of the Kirkhof Center. During the lunch, GVSU and the Seidman College of Business will host a choir from Fisk University called the Fisk Jubilee Singers.

All events at GVSU are free and open to the public. Those looking to participate in the poverty simulation or Upcycling session must first RSVP on www.gvsu.edu/mlk, where a complete schedule for the rest of the week is provided.