In a time of discrimination, he taught integration. In places of violence, he brought peace. As his principles came to life, an assassin brought him death. Jan. 15 is the birthday of Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. and a day our nation takes to commemorate the man who assembled a movement and held America to its own standards.

At 7 p.m. Monday, Ames residents gathered in the cafeteria of Ames High School to rejoice in song and dance for King.

The audience took to their feet and clapped along as the Gospel Soul Innovators, a multicultural gospel choir group, belted soulful beats.

Iowa State’s Student Athlete Advisory Committee was there with representatives from each sport to honor the influence King has had on athletic endeavors.

Bobby Douglas, Flo Hyman and Serena and Venus Williams were just a few of the African-American athletes to be highlighted.

“The evening was absolutely fantastic. It was great that SAAC came out, because it’s important for kids to see how they can take a message and conceptualize it towards themselves for better understanding,” said Rohini Ramnath, senior in political science. Ramnath helped to direct and coordinate the evening’s activities.

Mary Sawyer, professor of religious studies, has been involved in the civil rights movement since the near beginning and cherishes her memories of hearing Dr. King speak.

“Dr. King said we must be nonconformists and stand up for what is just and right.

“Forty years later, I still stand up to his ideals,” Sawyer said.

Sawyer met heavy resistance during her push for peace and was even kicked out of college for her involvement in assemblies.

“We had a tremendous sense of calling and purpose. We believed we could change the world,” Sawyer said.

Birthday cake was served to the children and parents who participated in the festivities.

Basil Mahayni, graduate student in political science, spoke about tolerance and progression.

“I can’t help but feel that we have become complacent. We need to take this day to reflect on where we are as a society,” Mahayni said. “We need to understand one another in order to progress.”