Below are just a few of the ways you can celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr. in Milwaukee this year.  For a full list of activities, see this list from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel!

MLK Jr. Birthday Celebration at the Marcus Performing Arts Center

This event highlights community youth who interpret King’s words through art, speech, and writing contests every year. The winners will be showcased at this free celebration, and the theme is “What Are You Doing For Others?”

When: 4 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20th
Where: Marcus Performing Arts Center, 929 N. Water St., Milwaukee (free parking in the Marcus Center Parking Structure)
For more information: Visit www.marcuscenter.org/engage-and-learn/annual-events/

 

24th annual King Day Justice Program and March

The Milwaukee Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Justice Coalition will host its annual King Day justice program and march themed “We Are Not Afraid.” The program features speeches and musical performances from pianist David Nunley, singer Dorothy James, and internationally renowned trumpeter Russ Johnson. The event includes a panel discussion on trans rights, immigration rights, political oppression, and Palestinian rights. A march to the King statue on Martin Luther King Drive will conclude the event, weather permitting.

When: 1 p.m. program with march to King statue at 2:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20th
Where: St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1937 N. Vel Phillips Ave., Milwaukee
For more information: Call 414-241-4608

 

King Fest at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society & Museum

The 24th annual King Fest celebration themed “Where Do We Go From Here” will feature spoken word, drumming, praise dancers, vendors and local and national speakers. The event is free and open to the public, but donations are welcomed.

When: 1 to 5 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20th
Where: Wisconsin Black Historical Society & Museum, 2620 E. Center Street, Milwaukee
For more information: email janetteheerrera@aol.com

 

34th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Prayer Service

Guest speaker for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee’s 34th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Prayer Service will be Rev. Fred Alexander, O.C.D. He will speak on King’s final book, “Where Do We Go from Here.” The event includes a musical prelude followed by the prayer service.

When: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18th
Where: St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, 1937 N. Vel R. Phillips Ave., Milwaukee
For more information: Contact Shanedra Johnson at 414-758-2215 or Sister Callista Robinson at 414-374-3045

 

MLK Day of Service Activities

United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County organized a variety of volunteer experiences with local nonprofit organizations for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Two available projects are volunteering with painting, sorting donations or serving a meal with Guest House; or helping the Grand Avenue Club clean, paint and beautify their indoor spaces.

When: Various times on Monday, Jan. 20. For the Grand Avenue Club, groups can work out a day and time that best works
For more information: Visit unitedwaygmwc.org/MLKDay-of-Service