Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
“Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
About the Celebration
Each year, the City’s Events & Recognitions Committee accepts nominations for individuals or groups that exemplify Dr. King’s teaching and action in community service. Nominees should share Dr. King’s legacy and represent people of all color in the pursuit of hope, healing, and sustainable peace.
Honorees include individuals, groups, or organizations that have demonstrated a meaningful contribution to serving the community through human rights efforts, commitment to education, or sharing of their skills, and those that embody the legacy of Dr. King’s teachings and actions, to represent people of all color in the pursuit of hope, healing, and sustainable peace.
Event Details
Monday, January 19, 2026
Community Outreach Fair: 11 a.m.
Program: 1 p.m.
Greater Tacoma Convention Center (1500 Commerce Street)
Free parking will be available at the Convention Center and along the street
Highlights
- Emceed by Kwabi Amoah-Forson, Humanitarian and Driver of The Peace Bus
- Community Service Awards:
- Uncle Boy Chun Fook – Lifetime Service Award
- F. Jerome “JD” Davis – Emerging Leader Award
- Opening Remarks: City of Tacoma Mayor Anders Ibsen
- Keynote Speaker: Former Mayor of the City of Tacoma, Victoria Woodards
The City’s Events & Recognitions Committee selects the honorees to receive awards and oversees the annual production of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration.