Guidelines for funding sponsored programs and activities

“Like an unchecked cancer, hate corrodes the personality and eats away its vital unity. Hate destroys a man’s sense of values and his objectivity. It causes him to describe the beautiful as ugly and the ugly as beautiful, and to confuse the true with the false and the false with the true.” —Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Western Michigan University encourages students, faculty, and staff to submit proposals for activities, programs and workshops relevant to this year’s theme, “Seeding the Dream.” This theme challenges us to live out King's legacy by developing our own dreams with regard to social justice and equity while at the same time supporting and guiding the dreams of our young people as they strive to reach their maximum potential.

Past activities included a jazz/poetry slam, film discussion, speakers, panel discussions and a brown bag luncheon series.

Topics have included Bridging the University and Community with Dr. King’s Philosophy; Health Disparities Globally or Locally; Perspectives on Social Justice in the Local Setting; The Role of Popular Culture in Social Change, Media Coverage of Global Issues; The Multicultural Workplace; The Philosophy of Social Change; Women and Civil Rights; and Incorporating Social Justice Issues in K-12 and College Curricula.

Applicants requesting funding should consider the following:

• In an effort to emphasize MLK's legacy year-round, the committee is encouraging applicants to offer programs beyond the Spring 2013 semester. Special emphasis will be given to programs offered during late spring 2013 and fall 2013 semesters.
• Programs will be funded up to $500
• Proposals must contain a detailed budget
• Faculty, staff, students and other program organizers are expected to volunteer their services for the activity
• No marketing or publicity costs will be funded as the planning committee will market all events
• Funding for refreshments, including food and drinks, are excluded from consideration
• Completed applications are due by 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2, 2012
• Incomplete applications will not be processed
• Decisions regarding proposed programs and activities will be emailed to applicants

Examples from previous years

Book circle

Discussion of contrasts in cultural narratives in “The Clansman,” “Gone with the Wind” and “The Wind Done Gone.”

Dialogue circles

Discussion and reflections of MLK will be shared, followed by a brief summary lecture. Food provided.

Minorities in business

Workshop and seminar providing students of color a look at the business world and tips on how to get ahead, including interviewing and résumé skills.

MLK and Vietnam

Lecture giving an analysis of MLK’s position on the war and how King saw war as an enemy of the poor.

Teaching about Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement

Workshop for teachers and aspiring teachers on how the causes that Martin Luther King stood for are still pertinent today.