A Visionary Leader and Champion of the Arts

The 26th Annual MLK Celebration Sacramento event proudly honors James Wheatley as the 2025 Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award recipient. As the founder of Celebration Arts in Sacramento, Wheatley has spent nearly four decades using the transformative power of the arts to uplift, educate, and inspire the community. His unwavering commitment to inclusion, equity, and cultural enrichment embodies the legacy of the late Congressman Robert T. Matsui and the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Founded in 1986, Celebration Arts has become a cornerstone of Sacramento’s cultural landscape, offering theater, music, and dance programs that amplify underrepresented voices, particularly those of the African American community. Through his roles as an actor, director, choreographer, and mentor, Wheatley has empowered countless individuals to find and share their voices, fostering creativity and confidence. His work demonstrates the arts’ profound ability to spark dialogue, promote understanding, and drive meaningful social change.

Wheatley’s impact extends far beyond the stage. A true servant-leader, he has created opportunities for marginalized voices, championed social justice, and inspired countless others with his humility, passion, and dedication to community empowerment. His efforts continue to provide a safe, inclusive space where individuals can celebrate their cultural heritage while striving for a brighter, more equitable future.

For his extraordinary contributions to the arts and his unwavering commitment to social justice, the MLK Celebration Sacramento Committee is honored to recognize James Wheatley as the 2025 Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award honoree. Join us on January 25, 2025, as we celebrate his remarkable legacy and pay tribute to a man whose vision and service have transformed lives and enriched our community.