January 17, 2002
Director of Media Relations
413/542-8417

AMHERST, Mass.—Amherst College has scheduled three special events in early February for the college’s annual celebration of the life of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The first will be a musical exploration of the African-American experience performed by “Return to the Source” (RTS), a popular group headed by an Amherst College alumnus, Junius Williams ’65. RTS is a vocal and instrumental ensemble specializing in the history and performance of African-American music, and its repertory includes spirituals, blues, jazz, gospel and popular music. The group will perform at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 1, in the Frontroom of the Keefe Campus Center.

Featured speakers as the annual Interfaith Service commemorating the life and works of Dr. King in Johnson Chapel at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 3, will be the celebrated “God Squad” duo of Msgr. Thomas Hartman and Rabbi Marc Gellman. Known for their frequent appearances on ABC’s television program “Good Morning America” and in other media, the two discuss religion—especially their own Roman Catholic and Jewish faiths—in an irreverent but positive manner. They were well received at the college’s MLK service several years ago and are making a return appearance.

The third event will be a talk titled “We’re All in the Same Gang,” delivered in Johnson Chapel at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 7, by the prominent Latino film and TV actor, producer, director and activist Edward James Olmos. Among his many credits, Olmos has starred in such films as Blade Runner and Selena. He received a Golden Globe Award for his work in HBO’s The Burning Season, the story of the Brazilian political activist Chico Mendes. He also received both an Emmy and a Golden Globe Award for his portrayal of Lt. Castillo on the TV series “Miami Vice.”

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