Dr. Kevin Leo Yabut Nadal Speaks to Honor Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The Hopkins community honored Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with a powerful speech from guest speaker Dr. Kevin Leo Yabut Nadal at the Assembly on Friday, January 12.

Dr. Nadal is a distinguished psychology professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and the Graduate Center at the City University of New York, and a leading researcher on the impact of microaggressions on marginalized groups. He has authored 100+ works on multicultural issues. 

Dr. Nadal delivered a compelling speech about Dr. King’s life and influence on racial justice, highlighting ways in which Hopkins can continue his legacy by being agents of social change and advocating for equality and equity. 

“I hope you all become agents of social change," said Dr. Nadal during his presentation. "Throughout our country, activism has been how we have fought against oppression. Protests are what lead to changes in public opinion and pressure on lawmakers and government officials. Disruptions are how people demonstrate that change is necessary," he added.

During the Q&A portion, students engaged with Dr. Nadal about concepts of nonviolence and how to apply them to protest and activism in the 21st century as well as in everyday life, suggested works by Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, and how to respond and address microaggressions.