JOPLIN , MO (SNS) – Writer and race relations expert Daryl Davis, author of the book Klan-Destine Relationships, will deliver the keynote address for Missouri Southern State University's celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at 10 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 19 in Webster Hall Auditorium at MSSU.

The presentation is free and open to the public.

In his book Klan-Destine Relationships, Daryl Davis walked on the edge with one foot dangling over the precipice. His stories of surprise meetings with Klan leaders unaware of his skin color and of attending KKK rallies have the suspense of a Hitchcock thriller and have left audiences nationwide riveted to their seats in disbelief.

On a quest to do nothing more than explore racism and gather information for his book, the author of Klan-Destine Relationships eventually became the recipient of robes and hoods by Klan members who came to him to rescind their beliefs. Davis inadvertently stumbled upon a successful method of forming friendships between sworn enemies. His methods have led to controversy. In some white circles he has been deemed “politically incorrect.” Some black circles have called him an “Uncle Tom.”

Davis makes supports out of his detractors by proving his methods work and issuing the challenge: “I have Klan robes and hoods hanging in my closet, given to me. How many robes and hoods have you received as a result of your methods?”

Davis earned his Bachelor of Music Degree from Howard University. An accomplished blues and R&B musician, he performs regularly with his own Daryl Davis Band. He has toured extensively with Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry and other stars.

The week will begin with an invitation-only breakfast at 7 a.m., Monday, Jan. 16 on the third floor of the Billingsly Student Center. The news media is invited to cover the breakfast.

A Student Celebration Luncheon will be held at 12 noon, Thursday, Jan. 19 in the Connor Ballroom of the Billingsly Student Center. This event will feature Michael Rodgers, a member of the English & Philosophy Department faculty at Missouri Southern.

The MSSU Office of Academic Affairs, Campus Activities Board and Southern Impact sponsor events. Those with requests for accommodations are asked to contact Melanie Epperson at (417) 625-9346 at least 72 hours prior to the event.

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