Event Date
Jan 24, 2026
Location
Sac State University Ballroom
Keynote Speaker
Bishop Parnell Lovelace
Essay Contest
Submit by Dec 19
Attend
Be part of this memorable event
honoring Dr. King's Legacy
Sponsor
Support the region's
unity event
Students
13th annual essay contest
(grades 6 - 12)
2026 MLK Celebration Honorees & Speakers
A night of inspiration, leadership and community impact
MLK Keynote Speaker
Bishop Parnell
Lovelace
Bishop Parnell Lovelace is a trusted
faith leader inspiring unity, justice,
and hope in our community.
Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award
Kevin Brown
Honoring an individual who
exemplifies the true meaning of
service to the community.
2026 Nonprofit Grant
Recipient
Neighborhood Wellness Foundation advances community healing, wellness,
and opportunity in Sacramento.
2026 MLK Celebration Emcee and Invocation
Opening our celebration with reflection, unity, and shared purpose.
Invocation
Rev. Quentisha
Davis Wiles
Leading the invocation is Rev. Wiles, Senior Pastor of Saint Mark’s United Methodist Church, bringing a ministry rooted in faith, empowerment, and care.
Emcee
Darla Givens
Darla Givens is a familiar Sacramento TV presence, bringing warmth, professionalism, and years of local broadcasting experience.
Honoring Dr. King's Dream
HONORING EQUALITY, JUSTICE, AND UNITY.
The annual MLK Celebration Sacramento event celebrates Dr. King's dream of equality and justice. It features educational programs, an amazing keynote speaker, the awarding of 2026 MLK Essay contest winners, and honoring the Community Service Award honoree. Join us in honoring his legacy and building a more inclusive community.
5
Counties Participating
27
Annual MLK Celebrations
13
Years of the MLK essay contest
Regional MLK Essay Contest | Sponsored by City of Rancho Cordova, Interfaith Council of Greater Sacramento, The Observer, The Sacramento Kings, Alcalay Communications and Sacramento County Office Of Education
13th Annual | Grades 6–12 | Prizes up to $500
* Simple online entry
* On-stage recognition at the MLK Celebration
* Special recognition at the January 18 Sacramento Kings game
2026 MLK Celebration Sponsors
Join Us for the 2026 MLK Celebration
Celebrate unity, service, and the generation of leaders