Multicultural Reception Set For Martin Luther King Jr. Day

GREATER DES MOINES, IA (Dec. 19, 2023) – The Greater Des Moines Partnership will host a Multicultural Reception on Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, at the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex.  

The event is in partnership with the City of West Des Moines, West Des Moines Community Schools, West Des Moines Historical Society, Des Moines University, Polk County, Taste of the Junction, Meals from the Heartland and the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce. The Multicultural Reception is one event in a daylong celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day for the City of West Des Moines.     

This event will feature a reception and roundtable discussion from 3 – 3:45 p.m. From 3:45 – 5 p.m., there will be a celebration honoring Dr. King that will include keynote speaker Rich A. Salas, Ph.D. who serves as the Chief Diversity Officer at Des Moines University and is also an Assistant Professor for the Behavioral Medicine and Bioethics department. The event will be filled with thought-provoking discussions, educational exhibits, and scholarships and community awards.  

“Multicultural Receptions offer a unique chance to connect with individuals of varied backgrounds, fostering an ongoing conversation of understanding and appreciation for others' stories. We strongly encourage all members of the community to attend this free event,” said Dr. Marvin DeJear, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer for The Partnership. “This aids in fostering cultural understanding and solidarity, a meaningful tribute to the legacy of Dr. King” 

The event is free to attend but registration is required. Learn more at The Partnership’s website. 

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership  

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 400 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.