Activist Erika Alexander Urges Modern Activists to Embrace King’s Legacy

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Actress and activist Erika Alexander delivered a powerful message to modern activists during her keynote address at the University of Michigan’s 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Symposium on Jan. 20. “Get on with it. Don’t overthink it,” Alexander urged the audience at Hill Auditorium. “Life is disappointing, but don’t get discouraged. And don’t stop just because you did one thing.”

The symposium, now in its 39th year, celebrates King’s life and legacy. This year’s theme, “Restless Dissatisfaction: An Urgent Call for the Pursuit of Justice and Equality,” was inspired by King’s 1964 Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech and his 1967 address at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. The event was co-sponsored by the Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives and the Stephen M. Ross School of Business, with support from the William K. McInally Memorial Lecture Fund.

Alexander, known for her roles in “Living Single” and “Get Out,” joined Daphne C. Watkins, a University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor, for a conversation on activism, community, and storytelling. Alexander emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability, particularly for marginalized individuals. “I’m a shape shifter, and if you are a marginalized person, you’d better become one,” she said. “You have to learn a lot of skill sets to get the things you want done.”

Reflecting on her upbringing in Flagstaff, Arizona, Alexander credited her diverse community for shaping her worldview. “I spent my whole life living by the kindness of strangers,” she said, referencing neighbors from Navajo, Hopi, Mexican, and German Lutheran communities. “If it were not for that beloved community, I don’t think I would be where I am right now.”

Alexander also highlighted the enduring impact of storytelling, citing the “Maxine Shaw effect” from her role in “Living Single.” The character, a strong Black lawyer, inspired many viewers to pursue higher education. Alexander has since developed an educational curriculum to build on this legacy and empower future leaders.

The symposium concluded with a performance by writer and interdisciplinary artist Cherise Morris, who presented excerpts from her forthcoming book, “the cosmic matter of Black lives.” The event underscored King’s call for continuous effort in the fight for justice. As Tabbye Chavous, U-M’s chief diversity officer, noted, “Progress requires courage and vigilance. Your presence reaffirms our shared dedication to advancing equity and inclusion.”