Latest MLK Celebration News
Below are the latest updates and announcements from MLK Celebration Sacramento.
Press Release - December 2025 - Download PDF
MLK Celebration Sacramento Announces Community Service Award Honoree, Keynote Speaker, and Grant Recipient for 27th Annual Event
Sacramento, CA — The Sacramento Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee announces key highlights for its 27th Annual Sacramento MLK Celebration, which takes place Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., at California State University, Sacramento – University Ballroom.
This year, Bishop Parnell Lovelace will deliver the keynote address. He is a Sacramento-based faith leader known for advancing justice, unity, and community empowerment. His message will reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy and its continued relevance today.
The committee selected Kevin Brown as the 2026 recipient of the Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award. A former Major League Baseball player and the CEO of People Working Together, Brown has spent years creating jobs, expanding opportunity, and improving lives in Sacramento’s underserved communities.
“For 27 years, this celebration has honored Dr. King’s legacy by uniting our community, recognizing service, and inspiring the next generation,” said Vince Miles, Chairman of the Sacramento MLK Committee.
In addition, the Sacramento MLK Celebration Committee will present its annual community grant to Neighborhood Wellness Foundation, recognizing the organization’s work to strengthen health, wellness, and opportunity throughout the region.
Founded in response to a tragic act of hate in the community, the Sacramento MLK Celebration has grown into one of the region’s most inclusive annual events. Each year, we bring together civic leaders, educators, students, faith leaders, nonprofits, and community members. Together, we reflect, recognize service, and recommit to Dr. King’s vision.
Visit www.mlkcelebrationsacramento.org to buy tickets, explore sponsorships, or make a donation.
Kevin Brown Named 2026 Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award Honoree
The MLK Celebration Sacramento Committee proudly announces Kevin Brown as the 2026 Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award honoree. He will receive the award at the 27th Annual MLK Celebration on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the Sacramento State University Ballroom. Read the press release
Bishop Parnell Lovelace Announced as Keynote Speaker for the 2026 MLK Celebration Sacramento
The MLK Celebration Sacramento Committee is thrilled to announce that Bishop Parnell Lovelace will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2026 MLK Celebration Sacramento. He is widely respected for his character, integrity, and life-transforming teachings. The event takes place Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the University Ballroom at Sacramento State. Read the press release
2025 MLK Celebration Sacramento News
James Wheatley Named 2025 Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award Honoree
The MLK Celebration Sacramento Committee is proud to announce that James Wheatley, founder of Celebration Arts, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award. Wheatley will be honored at the 26th Annual MLK Celebration event, to be held on Thursday, January 25, 2025, at the Sacramento State University Ballroom. Read the press release
Lisa McNair Announced as Keynote Speaker for 2025 MLK Celebration Sacramento
The MLK Celebration Sacramento Committee is thrilled to announce that Lisa McNair, an acclaimed advocate for reconciliation and social justice, will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2025 MLK Celebration Sacramento. The event will take place on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the University Ballroom, Sacramento State, marking the 26th anniversary of this cherished community celebration. Read the press release
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