Civil rights leader to speak, sign book at Drury University as part of 150th anniversary

A civil rights leader will speak on the Drury University campus in mid-September as part of the institution's 150th anniversary celebration.

Valarie Kaur, an educator and author, will speak about "Diversity and Reconciliation" at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 18, at the O'Reilly Family Event Center.

"Valarie's life journey and dedication to promoting love as a force for justice makes her the ideal speaker for the Drury School of Religion theme of Diversity and Reconciliation,” said Peter Browning, Drury chaplain and professor of religion, in a news release. “Her powerful advocacy and ability to inspire millions aligns perfectly with the values we strive to celebrate during Drury's 150th anniversary."

Kaur became an activist when a Sikh father and family friend, Balbir Singh Sodhi, was the first person murdered in hate violence in the aftermath of 9/11.

For two decades, in his memory, Valarie led visionary campaigns to tell untold stories and change policy on issues ranging from hate crimes to solitary confinement to digital freedom.

She is best known for her No. 1 Los Angeles Times Bestseller book “See No Stranger,” and founder of the Revolutionary Love Project, which equips communities with practical tools to transform the nation from inside out.

Kaur also gained notoriety after her 2016 Watch Night Service address went viral with 40 million views.

In 2021, she led the People’s Inauguration, inspiring millions of Americans to renew their role in building a healthy, multiracial democracy.

Kaur’s speech is made possible through the Drury School of Religion, the Matthew 25 Project Fund and the Religious Activities Fund and is free for the public to attend.

After the talk, Kaur will host a book signing from noon to 1 p.m. in the O'Reilly Family Event Center followed by a luncheon in Drury’s Findley Student Center ballroom.

For members of the public who plan to attend the luncheon, it is $10 and registration is required in advance. A link can be found at drury.edu.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Civil rights leader Valarie Kaur will speak at Drury University