Brookfield Zoo to Host MLK, Jr. Day Celebration

Submitted by the Chicago Zoological Society.

BROOKFIELD, IL — Join Chicago Zoological Society staff for a musical celebration in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 16, at Brookfield Zoo. In honor of the day, zoo admission will be free (a parking fee will still apply).

At noon, guests can stop by the zoo’s Discovery Center to meet some of the zoo’s animal ambassadors and enjoy performances by members of the Chicago Metamorphosis Orchestra Project and Shift: Englewood Youth Orchestra. Afterwards, Rev. Debra Williams will share some inspirational remarks.

Guests are then invited to stay for a viewing of Dr. King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, which he delivered on August 28, 1963. On that historic day, Dr. King, one of the most prominent leaders of the civil rights movement, shared his dream with a large crowd in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. Following the viewing, there will be another musical performance by Claire Samojedny and the Matea Valley String Ensemble.

In addition, youngsters will be invited to participate in a craft activity of sharing their dreams on peace flags, which will be hung on branches and displayed in the zoo’s Hamill Family Play Zoo for guests to view.

This event is hosted by staff members of the Society’s Arcoiris group, whose mission is to achieve organizational excellence through diversity.

For further information, visit www.CZS.org or call (708) 688-8000.

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Image via the Chicago Zoological Society