To the editor:

Regarding the low attendance at the recent commemorative program honoring the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.: I wonder if the city has lost its enthusiasm for this event because of the limited population to which it appeals.

Despite the best efforts of organizers to make the celebration multiracial/multicultural, it is referred to as a “service” rather than a program. It has a very strong Christian emphasis and does not accurately reflect the ethnic, class, occupational or religious diversity of Lawrence.

I most enjoy the representative from Haskell Indian Nations University. Whether in the form of prayer (with some “spoken” in American Indian sign language) or speech, the words accurately convey the real message of Rev. King.

More participation, by all ethnic groups, in the form of poetry readings, short stories, live theatrical performances or music representing the entire Lawrence community would liven the program and attract larger numbers while serving to bring us closer together in our understanding of each other.

Wasn’t this the kind of unity for which King ultimately gave his life? Recognizing our equality across all lines. Wasn’t this his dream?

Move the program to a more central location. The distance from the heart of the city combined with the connection to the university may be detrimental to attendance. Adding spirited, meaningful and creative presentations could provide two wonderful hours.

Or, shorten the program — better to have a memorable, one-hour program than to lose half the audience before the keynote speaker is even introduced.

M.G. Roy,

Lawrence