Since 1983, the citizens of Sacramento have come together to celebrate the birthday and to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by offering a variety of events and opportunities for employment, education, and health service resources.
Dr. King will always be remembered as the leader of the American civil rights movement. A Baptist minister by training, Dr. King became a civil rights activist early in his career, leading the Montgomery Bus Boycott and helping to found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. His efforts led to the 1963 March on Washington, where he delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech, raising the public’s consciousness of the civil rights movement and establishing Dr. King as one of the greatest orators in American history. Sadly, King was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee.
Nearly 15 years after his death, President Ronald Reagan signed a bill creating a holiday to honor King. Observed for the first time on January 20, 1986, Martin Luther King Day is observed on the third Monday of January each year, around the time of Dr. King’s birthday. Many cities across the country, including Sacramento, host celebrations in honor of Dr. King’s life and legacy. In January 17, 2000, for the first time, Martin Luther King Day was officially observed in all 50 U.S. states.
The following is a list of Martin Luther King Day events in the Sacramento area:
SUNDAY, JANUARY 20TH
GOSPEL CELEBRATION - 6 p.m.
Capital Christian Center is located at 9470 Micron Ave. For More information, please call 916-856-5683
MONDAY JANUARY 21ST
MARCH - 8:30 a.m
Begins at Oak Park Community Center located at 3425 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., arrives at Sacramento City College 9:30 a.m., arrives at Sacramento Convention Center 11:00 a.m.
JOB, HEALTH, AND EDUCATIONAL FAIR & ARTS AND CRAFT VENDORS 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
SACRAMENTO CONVENTION CENTER
More than 60 employers and businesses, professional health groups and educational institutions will be on hand to recruit and pass out informational flyers. In addition to the fair there will be hands on activities for children, a multicultural talent showcase and a youth oratorical showcase.
MLK 200 VOICE MASS CHOIR - 5 p.m.
Antioch Progressive Church located at 7650 Amherst St., (Lord’s Family Life Center). Special guest conductor Michael Neumann, guest clinician Rickey Grundy and more. Tickets are $10 in advance ($12) at the door. Please call 682-2282, 685-1827 or 923-0005 for more information.