Madam Walker Theatre hosts MLK celebration INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indianapolis honored the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with two special events at the historic Madam Walker Theatre. From hands-on service projects to an empowering keynote address, the day is all about celebrating King’s vision of service and inspiration. Social services organization Seeds of Caring and the Madam Walker Legacy Center joined forces Monday morning for a special Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Youth Service. Kids ages 2-12, along with their loved ones, engaged in service stations where participants gave back to the community in ways that embody King’s vision of service and compassion. One participant, Glory Adepetu, said, “This is something that Martin Luther King would be proud of to see children also giving back and putting themselves out there to better their community.” Another participant, Anika Rupp, said, “I like that I can help people and also do something fun, because I liked putting together little packets for people.” Rupp added, “It’s just so great to be able to share my passion for social justice and servicing underserved populations with them. My daughter brought a friend and it was a great activity for them to be able to do together, especially in this political environment we’re in, it’s nice to be able to do something positive on a day like today.” Activities included putting together cleaning kits for recently housed neighbors, creating breakfast kits for children facing food insecurity, crafting sun catchers for older people, designing “Use Your Voice” posters to encourage social change, and participating in a dream catcher reflection craft. Another participant, Audrey Phillips, said, “I liked be able to make the crafts and stuff and do the snack kits and cleaning kits to people can have those things for their needs.” A few floors down, the theater hosted its 43rd annual MLK Day of Celebration, featuring keynote speaker Caroline Wanga, the chief executive officer of Essence Ventures, a part of Essence Magazine. Wanga talked about the future of women entrepreneurs, new opportunities for Black women, and the importance of civic engagement. The Madam Walker Legacy Center estimates nearly 2,000 people participated in the Martin Luther King Jr. Day events.