By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
The life, legacy, and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. are worth commemorating, and throughout Atlanta, there are many events and celebrations happening on and around the National Holiday observed on Monday, January 15, 2018.
2018 Salute to Greatness Awards Dinner
January 13, 2018, The Hyatt Regency Hotel
The Salute to Greatness Award, one of the King Center’s highest honors, is presented during the Annual Salute to Greatness Awards Dinner, to individuals and progressive organizations in recognition of outstanding efforts toward building Dr. King’s Beloved Community. This year’s honorees include Senator Cory Booker (NJ), and Hamdi Ulukaya, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Chobani. More info at thekingcenter.org
King50 – 2018 Morehouse College Commemoration
Dr. King’s undergraduate alma mater hosts a variety of mostly free events from January 6 through January 31. More info at morehouse.edu/kingcollection/celebration.
Georgia Tech MLK Celebration
Georgia Institute of Technology presents a full schedule of events that will commemorate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The lineup includes educational programs and service opportunities January 10 through 25. Learn more at diversity.gatech.edu/mlk-celebration-events.
MLK Day 5K – Let Freedom Run
Monday, January 15, Corner of Monroe Dr. & 10th St
The fitness event gathers diverse groups in our beloved community to celebrate Martin Luther King Day in the spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood with fellowship and fitness. More information on how to participate at mlkday5k.com.
Bayard Rustin/Audre Lorde Breakfast
Monday, January 15, 10 am, The Loudermilk Center
The event honors the lives of late Bayard Rustin and Audre Lorde and the ongoing work of Black LGBTQ and other people committed to social change. The breakfast engages people through fellowship and dialogue to support local activists. Participations and tickets are free. Contact InthelifeATL@aol.com for more information.
MLK March & Rally Atlanta
Monday, January 15, Peachtree and Baker Street
Take part in the traditional MLK March that celebrates, reflects on, and acts upon the teachings of Dr. King. Register at mlkmarchcommittee.com.
Commemorative Service at Ebenezer Baptist Church
Monday, January 15, 10 am, Ebenezer Baptist Church
Each year a commemorative service pays tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The service is free, but seating is limited.
MLK Museum Day
Enjoy free admission to the Atlanta History Center, and Margaret Mitchell House.
Impulse Group’s #OWNU Campaign Launch
The multimedia campaign will launch during MLK Day and aims to highlight prominent Black LGBTQ leaders who embody values represented by the LGBT Color Flag. The Impulse Group participate in the Rustin/Lorde Breakfast, and support the rally and march with #OWNU flyers and banners. Learn more on the Facebook page @impulsegrpatl.