At the Table with Dr. King captivates, inspires MUSD students

The American Civil Rights Movement was brought to life inside the Milpitas High School Theater on Wednesday, January 18 as a group of talented musician-historians, called At the Table with Dr. King, led a live performance documenting the life of Martin Luther King Jr.

“The music was awesome, great singers, very inspirational,” said Milpitas HS freshman Allie Klaydman, 14.

Milpitas HS senior Kenneth Tsau, 18, agreed: “I thought the show was great. It was really powerful how they mixed music with the words of Dr. King.”

The hour-long learning experience sets out to teach students about the American Civil Rights Movement and valuable lessons of equality and respect. Through music, poetry, historical video footage and Dr. King’s own words, At the Table also challenges students to engage in creative acts of service and leadership in their communities.

“The message really resonated with me: You’ve got to do something or nothing will happen,” said 17-year-old senior Hanna Lum, who participated twice in Wednesday’s three sessions by At the Table with Dr. King.

“I thought it was really well done,” shared MHS senior Nitin Ramesh, 17. “It certainly made an impression on me about standing up for yourself and what you believe in no matter what comes your way.”

Senior Elle Leabres, 18, the president of the MHS TrueColors Club, was inspired by the call to action “to promote equality in all communities and minority groups that do not have a strong voice.”

“It was very impactful on how they conveyed their message through music, imagery and quotes from Dr. King,” Leabres said. “It really encouraged me as a leader of a club to push for equality even further.”

Weller Elementary School's 2nd to 4th grade classes, as well as students from Rose Elementary School, were able to attend the afternoon session at MHS.

“We greatly appreciated this opportunity to learn about Dr. King and all his contributions. Students loved learning through song and engaging with the performers on stage,” said Weller Principal Deanna Elzey. “We sometimes forget how powerful music can be in our instruction. It was a joy to see the students clapping and dancing, as they embraced Dr. King's legacy and lasting impact on us all.”