For a second year, students are given Monday off to observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day, but the chance to recognize King's contributions to American society did not come easily.
Ball State was one of the last state schools to cancel classes on the day. It began with several student organizations, such as the Black Student Assoc-iation, proposing legislation to the University Senate in 2000 that would cancel classes for the holiday.
But after much heated debate, a unanimous approval from the University Senate, the Board of Trustees approved the cancellation of classes in 2001.
After almost two years, some still question if students really take advantage of the day away from classes.
"As with every other holiday, most students don't know what it means," said Tolu Olowomeye, president of SGA.
Freshman Tamara Hamilton said she believes recognition of King's accomplishments is important, but thinks other students do not fully understand.
"Honestly, very few students are going to sit around and think of Martin Luther King Jr.," Hamilton said.
Michelle Hudson, president of BSA, said she hopes Unity Week events will increase student understanding of the holiday.
"We try to have events going on to encourage people to stay for the weekend," Hudson said.
Student leaders said they hoped students will use the day off to attend events and gain a deeper understanding of the holiday.
"It gives students the opportunity to go to events without missing classes," Megan Pickens, vice president of SGA, said.
"The significance of having the day off makes people think about why they have the day off," said Derick Virgil, director of the Multicultural Center. But not all students miss the focus of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
"I think many students care deeply," Randy Hyman, dean of students, said. "There are some who see it as just a day off, but a great number of students take the recognition of Dr. King's contributions seriously."
The apathy of students, however, may not always remain.
"With time and proper programming, it will change," Olowomeye said. "We just got the holiday off, so we can't get a turnout like we wish."
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