March, Memory, and Meaning: UCSB Launches MLK Day Weekend with Historic Campus Tribute

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) - SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) - The Eternal Flame set the tone — a quiet moment of reflection at the heart of campus.

For many students, the message wasn’t about history alone — it was personal.

“I want to celebrate the legacies of my ancestors who have fought in the past. I hope to continue to fight on campus and when I go into the world to pursue my career," said student Michiah Woods of UC Santa Barbara.

“The Ark of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice. Today we come together to celebrate a fight for freedom and moments that feel like the arc is being pulled back," said a speaker at the event.

The gathering also recalled UCSB’s role in the civil rights movement, tied to a 1968 protest at North Hall.

“Realize that there is still hope and that hope can last eternally, and that the fight can continue to go on as long as we all stand together," said Woods.

The Eternal Flame burns, a witness to the work that still remains.