Celebrating Civic Engagement: A Tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.
Photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World
Deborah Dandridge, a pioneering archivist whose work has helped preserve African American history in the Great Plains region, speaks at the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast on January 19, 2026.
On a chilly January morning, community members gathered to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast hosted by the Jayhawk Breakfast Rotary Club. The atmosphere buzzed with camaraderie and reflection at Maceli’s Banquet and Catering Hall in downtown Lawrence, Kansas. This year’s keynote speaker was Deborah Dandridge, a retired archivist who dedicated her life to preserving the rich history of African American communities.
Civic Engagement as a Tradition
In her compelling address, Dandridge emphasized that civic engagement has long been a cornerstone of the African American experience, particularly during periods of oppression. “Civic engagement is a long-standing tradition among African Americans,” she noted, explaining how collective actions helped communities navigate the challenges of racial segregation and discrimination.
According to Dandridge, the history of African Americans is replete with examples of communal support. “For many who were enslaved, civic engagement enabled progress despite overwhelming barriers,” she reflected. By forging networks and bonds, these communities were able to support one another across multiple dimensions—social, religious, and even health-related needs.
The Role of Historical Archives
As the former curator of the African American Experience Collections at the Kenneth Spencer Research Library, Dandridge has been instrumental in documenting these vital stories. Her work has preserved archives that illustrate the myriad ways in which African Americans have uplifted each other through civic participation since the late 1700s. “These archives show that African American communities have a centuries-long tradition of coming together,” she remarked.
She pointed out that as early as the 18th century, African Americans were organizing churches, literary societies, and benevolent organizations to meet the needs of their communities. Dandridge posited that this history of collaboration provides a roadmap for today’s civic initiatives.
Photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World
People eat breakfast at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast on January 19, 2026.
A Legacy of Activism
Dandridge’s insights extended beyond Lawrence as she highlighted significant historical movements in Kansas. She underscored the town of Nicodemus, the oldest remaining Black settlement west of the Mississippi, and Douglass Hospital in Kansas City, one of the first African American hospitals established in the region. These landmarks stand as testaments to the indomitable spirit of African Americans fighting for their rights.
“With each wave of migration, African Americans felt the pressing need to defend their civil rights,” shared Dandridge, referring to the formation of the Afro American League, which predated the NAACP. This historical context adds depth to the ongoing conversations about race and community today.
Continuing the Work
Though Dandridge retired in the summer of 2025, her commitment to preserving history remains steadfast. She assured attendees that the mission continues at the University of Kansas, led by current efforts from Phil Cunningham. Dandridge acknowledged, “I have retired, but I want you to know that KU is still continuing with this important program.”
Photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World
Christy Blanchard, a Jayhawk Breakfast Rotary Club member, awards the Jayhawk Breakfast Rotary Club MLK Scholarship to Free State High School senior Ewa Adedipe on January 19, 2026.
Honoring Young Leaders
During the event, the Jayhawk Breakfast Rotary Club awarded its annual MLK Scholarship to Ewa Adedipe, a senior at Free State High School. The scholarship, valued at $1,500, is granted to a student of color intending to pursue higher education. In a heartfelt speech, Adedipe shared how her experience volunteering at HeadQuarters Kansas—a nonprofit focused on suicide prevention—shaped her understanding of service.
“When I first joined, my main goal wasn’t necessarily service but to be seen, a stepping stone for college applications,” she confessed. However, her perspective shifted, and she began to find meaning in understanding the needs of others. Adedipe plans to study biomedical engineering, focusing on solutions to better serve African American communities.
A Call to Action
Dandridge’s address served as a poignant reminder of the importance of civic engagement and mutual support in the struggle against oppression. By looking at the work of those before us, from community organizers to archivists like herself, we can draw inspiration for current and future movements.
As the community savored breakfast together, conversations flowed about the paths still ahead, grounded in both history and hope. The annual breakfast not only commemorates a legendary figure but also serves as a catalyst for continued dialogue on community, activism, and empowerment.
This celebration not only honored King’s legacy but also urged those in attendance to reflect on their own journeys in fostering change, ensuring that the spirit of civic engagement remains alive and well in Lawrence and beyond.