Photos: Malibu Library Remembers MLK

The Malibu Library honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on his birthday, Jan. 15, with an African American history program, featuring guest storyteller Makinto, an artist, educator and musical activist.

It was a rainy, muddy day, but the show went on to the delight of all those who attended. 

Makinto’s passionate storytelling captivated the all-ages audience. He depicted the cultural history of African Americans through storytelling and music. He played musical instruments, singing songs that painted a picture of what enslaved Africans had to endure when brought to America, as well as introducing musicians and the role that African music has had on American culture.

Makinto addressed the history of inequality for African Americans and described the work Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders did. The children listened intently to stories on slavery, the civil rights movement and King’s peaceful protests.  

At the end of the program, everyone linked arms and joined Makinto singing “We Shall Overcome,” a famous gospel song that grew popular as part of the civil rights movement. 

Friends of the Malibu Library co-hosted this event.

For more information on Makinto, visit makinto.com.

Storyteller Makinto leads the group in singing “We Shall Overcome,” a gospel song that increased in popularity during the 20th century Civil Rights movement. “They sang songs; these were songs of unity, these were songs of freedom and of brotherhood,” Makinto described.

Storyteller Makinto describes the history of slavery in America during his program at the Malibu Library. 

Samantha and her son, Maxi, attend the program on Thursday, Jan. 15.

Attendees of the Malibu Library’s African American history program join hands and sing “We Shall Overcome” in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.