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Basketball legend Magic Johnson gave a speech at Arizona State University (ASU) in celebration of the 60th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech at the same institution. Johnson discussed King’s impact on his life and career, and reflected on his journey as a black businessman. He also donated $50,000 to three ASU students and highlighted the importance of investing in minority communities.
Magic Johnson Honors MLK Legacy at Arizona State University
Magic Johnson chose to speak not from an elevated stage, but while pacing in front of the crowd at Arizona State University’s Student Pavilion. The NBA legend spoke passionately about his high school days and the influence of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy on his life.
Johnson was at the university to speak at the inaugural “Building History: Continuing the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” event. The assembled crowd included pastors, family members of notable activists, city officials, students, and Phoenix community members, celebrating the 60th anniversary of King’s inspiring speech at ASU.
Johnson’s speech revolved around King’s vision of a world where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. He also spoke about how the late civil rights leader’s advocacy for the Black community directly impacted his personal and professional success.
Dr. Kenja Hassan from ASU’s Office of Government and Community Engagement hosted the event, which drew a crowd of 500 attendees, far exceeding initial expectations.
Before Johnson’s speech, Tempe mayor Corey Woods, Amazon senior manager of community engagement John Pombier, and SodexoMagic president Charles Johnson shared their remarks. However, the highlight of the night came when Johnson, the founder of Magic Johnson Enterprises, reflected on how King’s call for equality and opportunity paved the way for his own success.
He upheld his mission by donating $50,000 to ASU students Tajilynn Karim, Nia Heckler, and Serenity Reynolds, representing ASU’s Black African Coalition. The students gifted Johnson a custom-named number 33 ASU basketball jersey and a published book at the event’s conclusion.
Johnson has been instrumental in bringing Starbucks to inner cities across America and his movie theater chain “Magic Johnson Theatres” has provided countless job opportunities for minorities.
Phoenix Suns broadcast analyst and former NBA player Eddie Johnson, who once played with Magic on a high school summer team in Germany, praised Johnson’s speech, stating that ASU couldn’t have found a better speaker to honor Dr. King’s legacy.
Throughout the evening, Johnson embodied the essence of King’s teachings by ensuring a close interaction with the audience. The night concluded with a prayer led by Johnson, urging all to embrace King’s belief in universal love and respect.
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