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GVL / Kim Miller
The silent march began at 1:45pm on Monday. Participants gathered at the main entrance of the Zumberge Library, walked across the bridge, weaved their way by Fresh and Mackinac Hall, and ended at the Fieldhouse.

Silence delivers important message for present

By Lauren Fitch GVL News Editor
1/21/2009

The impact of silence was evident on Monday as a record-setting number of Grand Valley State University students, faculty and community members participated in the Silent March commemorating Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

President Thomas J. Haas and Bobby Springer, associate director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs, led the march , which boasted the greatest turnout of the three years it has been held.

Along the route from Zumberge Library to the Fieldhouse Arena, signs informed walkers of different accomplishments in King's life, ending with his assassination on April 4, 1968.

"Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy is really felt on campuses throughout the nation," Haas said. "The march is a time to stop and reflect on the challenges (King) went through for our country."

Passersby were just as affected by the march of participants. Everyone took notice of the long, silent procession.

Springer said previously the march was not silent, but taking away conversation during the walk allowed people to reflect and feel a better connection with King's cause.

"It is a time for all of us to come together for the great cause of equality and justice," Springer said.

Overall, the march lasted less than 10 minutes, but for those who braved the cold to be a part of it, the experience was worthwhile.

Haas said it is important for students to be involved in celebrating King's life because his message of using individual responsibility and talent to serve others is similar to GVSU's goal.

"King had higher aspirations for our students," Haas said. "We need to realize our potential and help fulfill his dream."

Springer echoed the belief in the potential of GVSU students.

"We are better together than as individuals, this is a time to feel the brotherhood," he said.

Though attendance was not completely voluntary, students seemed enthusiastic to be involved.

Brigid Nash, a freshman majoring in exercise science, described the experience as intense.

She said she thought it was important to be involved because King was so instrumental in gaining equality in the U.S.

Allendale High School senior Kyle Cushman traveled to GVSU to participate in the march along with the rest of his World Conflicts class.

Cushman said the class attends every year.

"It's important to get out and see historic events," Cushman said. "(King) is part of our history."

Haas said he was inspired and proud to be a part of the GVSU community commemorating King's life and accomplishments in such a way.

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