The Kuumba Singers performed twice during the service, receiving a standing ovation after their second song.
“The music is always symbolic of struggle and hope,” said Kuumba member Jennifer S. Leath ’03. “Martin Luther King’s vision is very important to Kuumba’s vision and to the black experience.”
As Kuumba returned to their seats, Shankar A. Nair ’05 and Julia B. Appel ’04 read more “Dreams of the People” to the audience.
The Harvard Foundation sponsored an open reception in the Church’s Buttrick Room after the service, allowing community members to reflect on the service and King’s vision.
David L. Evans, a senior officer in the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid, said he was pleased by what he thought was the “largest attendance” in the history of the annual service.
“I have been an advisor to the Harvard Foundation since its inception and nothing gratifies me more than when the Foundation is able to bring together a group as diverse as attended today,” Evans said.
Zachary D. Raynor ’05 said he saw the service as a “way to show respect” to King.
Caleb I. Franklin ’04 agreed. “Martin Luther King was an amazing man, and to celebrate him is to really celebrate all of us,” he said.
Counter’s 10-year-old daughter Olivia said she enjoyed the service. Though her dream was not read aloud during the service, Olivia said she hoped for “a cure for every disease, and that people will have a place to stay and will be healthy.”
“Martin Luther King was a very important person,” Olivia said earnestly.
University President Lawrence H. Summers did not attend Monday’s service, but Counter read a statement he wrote for the occasion.
Summers’ statement urged the audience to “keep King’s message and spirit alive, hoping that one day people will be able to walk together peacefully.”
Counter credited the service’s execution to the “dedication” of the 13 student planners, and the efforts of the United Ministry, Memorial Church, the Harvard Foundation and the BSA.
—Staff writer Kristi L. Jobson can be reached at jobson@fas.harvard.edu.