Communities across the United States are gearing up to honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with celebrations scheduled on and around January 20, 2025. These events reflect the spirit of unity, service, and remembrance, as people come together to celebrate the civil rights leader's life, his teachings, and the progress made toward social justice.
One of the notable events will be the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. program taking place on January 20, organized by the MLK Committee with President Miranda Bridges at the helm. "It's a chance for the community to come together and be supportive to one another, recognize Dr. King’s life and his dream and his vision for all of us," stated Bridges. The event will kick off with a peaceful march starting at 5 p.m. from the Surf ‘N Slide parking lot to the Moses Lake Civic Center. For those who prefer not to walk, refreshments will be available at the Civic Center auditorium where attendees can watch a film about Dr. King and listen to inspiring presentations and performances.
Pastor Plasido Lindsey from New Bride Missionary Baptist Church is set to read King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech, originally delivered at the March on Washington. The committee has also engaged local school students from seventh to ninth grades to write essays addressing whether they see Dr. King’s dream alive today. These reflections will be displayed around the auditorium. There will also be performances by the Dream in Action children and a silent auction featuring donations from local businesses, with proceeds supporting future committee activities. Bridges shared, “We are definitely just trying to fill his footsteps,” referring to the late Charlie Jones, who was the committee's president for over two decades and passed away last July.
On the same day, the Northfield Human Rights Commission will host its own celebration at 7 p.m. under the theme “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365.” Keynote speaker Robin Wonsley, Minneapolis’ first Black Independent Democratic Socialist City Council member, will address attendees. The event will also feature the presentation of the Human Rights Award to local advocates working tirelessly for community rights, demonstrating the importance of local involvement in continuing Dr. King’s mission.
Meanwhile, Milwaukee is no stranger to MLK Day celebrations, with various events planned throughout the week. Community members will have numerous opportunities to engage, including joining the MLK Community Choir, with practices scheduled two days prior to the holiday. One of the long-standing traditions is the MLK Free Community Dinner hosted by the King Coalition, featuring traditional dishes like fried chicken and sweet potato pie. It is set for January 17, offering residents both good food and fellowship as they honor Dr. King's spirit.
Madison will also play host to numerous events, culminating with the annual City and County MLK Day Observance on January 20, featuring influential discussions and recognizing community members who uphold Dr. King’s ideals. This gathering will take place at the Overture Center and is expected to attract many residents eager to reflect on Dr. King's teachings. Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway and Dane County Executive Melissa Agard will present the MLK Humanitarian Awards at this event.
For those on the west coast, metro Phoenix offers its own rich set of celebrations, including the Chandler Multicultural Festival, which will celebrate its 30th year. On January 18, the festival will feature diverse performances, cultural activities, and highlight King’s legacy with entertainment for families and community members alike.
The Glendale Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service invites volunteers to glean citrus fruit at local parks, demonstrating how direct community service honors King’s legacy of generosity and action. Participants can contribute to uplifting their community by helping to feed families during the service on January 18.
Continuing the tradition, the City of Phoenix will hold its Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. March and Festival, which brings people together from across the region to march from Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church to Margaret T. Hance Park. This year's event promises to be uplifting with music, food, and activities to celebrate unity.
Overall, these events will not only serve as commemorations of Dr. King's influential legacy but also as platforms for communities to engage meaningfully through service, reflection, and commitment to social justice. The shared experience of coming together strengthens the bonds within communities, fostering discussions about equality, civil rights, and their relevance today.
Participate and celebrate this January as communities unite to reflect on King’s impactful message and to continue working toward justice and equality for all.