Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Sacramento Event
Dr. Dorothy Enomoto, co-founder of MLK Celebration Sacramento, was a classmate and close friend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Notably, they shared valedictorian honors at Booker T. Washington High School in Atlanta, forging a lifelong bond that shaped both of their paths.
Meanwhile, her husband and co-founder, Jerry Enomoto, made history as the first Asian Pacific American U.S. Marshal. He was appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1994, marking a major milestone in public service and representation.
In addition, the late Congressman Robert T. Matsui served as the event’s first honorary co-chair. Following his passing in 2005, Congresswoman Doris Matsui graciously continued the role in his honor, preserving his legacy and commitment to civil rights.
Furthermore, a portion of the proceeds helps fund the MLK Committee grant program, which supports local community initiatives. It’s important to note that the MLK Committee is a California Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation.
About the Event
MLK Celebration Sacramento is a unifying event, deeply rooted in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s message of justice and equality. Each year, Sacramento comes together to celebrate his enduring vision of peace, progress, and community empowerment.
In 2026, we proudly mark the 27th annual MLK Celebration Sacramento, presenting heartfelt programs and uplifting diverse community voices. Through this local celebration, we continue to honor Dr. King’s lifelong commitment to civil rights, nonviolent protest, and public service.
His leadership, which helped transform the nation, continues to inspire generations to challenge inequality through peaceful action. For example, Dr. King co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. This event began in 2000, when Sacramento leaders Dr. Dorothy Enomoto and Jerry Enomoto launched it to uplift Dr. King’s legacy. With support from Congressman Robert T. Matsui, they united Sacramento’s faith, civic, and educational communities.
Since then, elected officials, business leaders, educators, law enforcement, nonprofits, and residents have come together year after year to reflect, learn, and take action. The event features inspiring speakers, meaningful performances, and community awards that highlight Sacramento’s continued commitment to equity and inclusion.
Ultimately, MLK Celebration Sacramento is more than just an event—it’s a call to action.
Join us in January 2026 as we celebrate Dr. King’s dream and continue his work right here in Sacramento. Together, we can honor the past and build a more just future for all.
Honorary Event Chairwoman
Congresswoman Doris Matsui
IN MEMORIAM
Jerry Enomoto (1927 - 2016) | Co-Founder MLK Celebration Sacramento
Dr. Dorothy Enomoto (1927 - 2017) | Co-Founder MLK Celebration Sacramento
From the 2012 MLK Celebration - A Special Video Tribute To Dorothy and Jerry Enomoto
An Interview with Louis Morton - Memories From The 1963 March on Washington
View our interview with Louis Morton, who gives a firsthand account of his attendance at the August 28, 1963 event where he heard Dr. Martin Luther King deliver his "I Have A Dream" speech.
For information about the annual dinner, please contact Alcalay Communications at acgprsac@gmail.com
Celebrating Our 25th Anniversary Years!
The 25th Anniversary MLK Celebration Sacramento, held last year, was an incredible evening featuring three local university and college presidents, along with the recognition of an individual who made significant contributions to our local community. During the event, the MLK Committee proudly announced the establishment and funding of a scholarship endowment at Sacramento State to support student scholarships. As we look ahead, the MLK Committee is committed to hosting this annual event in support of our community. Visit the gallery page on this website to view photos from past events.
The MLK Celebration took place on Saturday, January 27, 2024, commemorating our 25th anniversary by honoring and remembering the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Please join us in continuing this cherished Sacramento tradition at future annual MLK Celebrations, as we unite our community, elected officials, clergy, nonprofits, and students of all ages to forge new paths toward a brighter and more equitable future for all.
On behalf of the MLK Celebration Sacramento Committee, we look forward to seeing you!