Courtesy photo
Betsey Stockton was an African American who founded the first school for native Hawaiian commoners in Lahaina, Maui, according to the National Park Service.

She was born as a slave but was given the opportunity to become educated and used that education to be the first single female New England missionary arriving in Lahaina, Hawaii in 1823,

According to an account by the National Park Service, at a time when only royalty and special scholars hand-picked by royalty were provided a formal education, African American Betsey Stockton established Hawaii’s first school for commoners “maka‘ainana,” increasing access to the public.

As the state observes the contributions to civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, the day also serves as a reminder of other African Americans like Stockton who improved the lives of the public.

On Maui, the public is invited to celebrate a Musical Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, Jan. 19, from 9 a.m. to noon in front of Kalana O Maui (County Building) at 200 South High Street in Wailuku.

The program includes emcee Kahu Alalani Hill, opening blessing at the Stone of Hope, words from Mayor Bissen, a recitation by Bryant Neal of Dr. King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech, performances by vocalist Sheryl Renee, Lei‘ohu Ryder, Dayan Kai, Tanama Colibri, and DJ Zeke.

Event organizer Bryant Neal said the big addition to this year’s event is the newly formed “Voices of the Valley Gospel Choir” under the direction of Vania Jerome.

Members of the choir include: Nara Boone, Aida Rose, Danielle Ferrer, Lin McEwin, Sheryl Renee, Charles Cook, Jason Jerome, and Ben Isaiah.

Attendees are advised to bring a low back chair. This free event is organized by the King Center and Arts Education for Children Group/Jazz Maui. For more information, contact info@aefcg.org or call (808) 283-3576.

Martin Luther King Day Schedule

9:00 – Opening Blessing at Stone of Hope

Words from Mayor Bissen

Sheryl Renee / Bryant Neal I have a dream excerpt

Voices of the Valley Gospel Choir

Words from Lei‘ohu Ryder + music number

Dayan Kai

Drums Of Passion

Tanama Colibri

DJ Zeke