This annual observance includes the presentation of the MLK Humanitarian Award by City of Madison Mayor, Satya Rhodes-Conway and Dane County Executive Joe Parisi. Noted musician Leotha Stanley will again lead the MLK Community Choir. The event will feature keynote speaker Ilyasah Shabazz, daughter of Malcolm X and award-winning author, educator, and producer.
Watch or Listen to the Virtual Ceremony
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Click here for a listing of other MLK Day events hosted by the King Coalition and other community groups.
Due to continued public health precautions, the 2022 MLK Day observance will be a virtual event.
This event is co-sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Madison and is the capstone of a series of events hosted by the King Coalition to commemorate the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.
More King Coalition Events
MLK Day Youth Call to Service
Monday, January 17 at 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm on Zoom
Middle & High School Youth exploring Dr. King's legacy of service and activism.
See Details & Register >
MLK Ecumenical Service
Sunday, January 16 at 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm
Seeking to promote the "beloved community" through spiritual inclusivity.
See Details & View Online >
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, events will be virtual this year. The MLK Free Community Dinner which traditionally kicks off the MLK Day weekend has been canceled this year. However, the official City-County Observance, MLK Ecumenical Service, and the Youth Call to Service event will all continue with dynamic virtual observances of the Dr. King Holiday. In addition, other community events are also being planned virtually.
About the King Coalition
The King Coalition was established in the fall of 1985 as a community group to plan the official City of Madison and Dane County observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. The planning of this holiday celebration takes on special significance as people from all walks of life gather in the spirit of true brotherhood and sisterhood to commemorate the life and accomplishments of this renowned leader of the Civil Rights movement. The Coalition consists of representatives from religious communities, organized labor, the UW-Madison, public schools, peace groups, service organizations, and city and county government. Other individuals have joined because of their personal commitment to equal rights and justice for all people.