Monthly Archives: January 2025

Martin Luther King Junior Day Events Slated for Sunday, Monday

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JONESBORO –  Several events will take place around Jonesboro and the Arkansas State University campus to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as part of the annual NEA Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations. 

The NEA Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade Committee will host a youth program kickoff at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, at the Jonesboro High School Performing Arts Center, 301 Hurricane Drive.

“This program will highlight the voices and talents of our youth, fostering the next generation of leaders inspired by Dr. King’s values,” said Ashley Wilson, committee co-chairman.

The community is invited to attend and celebrate the legacy of the civil rights leader. 

The festivities will begin at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 20, with the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade. The parade will start at the Lt. Col. Frederick Turner Jr. Military Science Building on the A-State campus. 

It will depart the military science building, travel up Marion Berry Parkway to Johnson Avenue, proceed down University Loop, and conclude at the Fowler Center.

Performances from the Forrest City High School Band, Osceola High School Band, Jonesboro High School Steppers, and Drumline will be featured during the parade. 

“We encourage community organizations to bring banners and participate in the parade to showcase their commitment to Dr. King’s vision of freedom, justice and democracy,” said Wilson.  

Following the parade, the public is encouraged to gather at noon at Fowler Center, 201 Olympic Drive, for the 23rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration. 

The theme for the program this year is “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice & Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence.”

Jonesboro native Jervonne Newsome will serve as the keynote speaker for the event.

“As a licensed attorney, minister and community advocate, Elder Newsome will deliver an empowering and thought-provoking message aligned with Dr. King’s mission of unity and social justice,” said Wilson. “The program will also feature inspiring performances, reflections on Dr. King’s legacy, and a call to action for continued community activism.” 

Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver and A-State leadership will also speak during the program. 

Dr. Carlitta Moore, vice chancellor for access and institutional engagement, says it’s a time to unite, reflect and carry on Dr. King’s vision. 
 
“We are thrilled to be able to embark on this wonderful opportunity bringing together our community in partnership with Arkansas State University while honoring and celebrating the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This event not only serves as a chance to gather and strengthen bonds, but to reflect on the vision of Dr. King. Together, we look forward to creating a meaningful and inspiring experience which will continue to realize his ideals and ignite our shared values,” said Moore.

Arkansas Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Commission to be Honored in Las Vegas

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Officials with the Arkansas Martin Luther King Junior Commission will celebrate the King Holiday in both Las Vegas and Arkansas, honoring the legacy of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission is recognized as one of the most active commissions in the nation. In recognition of the service of the Arkansas Commission, an invitation was extended for the Arkansas Commission to come to Las Vegas to participate in the world’s largest King Holiday Parade, which occurs on Monday, January 20.

            The national partnership will bring the MLK Tech Summit to Arkansas, introducing high school students to technology careers. The Las Vegas City Council will also honor the Arkansas Martin Luther King Junior Commission for its work, with a special salute from the city of North Las Vegas and a presentation of the city’s key.

            Some of the events that will occur in Las Vegas involving the Arkansas Martin Luther King Junior Commission include:

  • The Ultimate Measure of a Man at the West Las Vegas Library on Thursday, January 16
  • The 7th Annual MLK Tech Summit at the Las Vegas City Hall on Friday, January 17
  • The Interfaith Service at the Nehemiah Ministries Christian Church in Las Vegas on Friday, January 17
  • 43rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Junior Scholarship Banquet at the Orleans Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, Friday, January 17
  • 43rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Parade in Downtown Las Vegas on January 20

Additionally, the Executive Director of the Arkansas Martin Luther King Junior Commission, Dushun Scarbrough, will be recognized for his work with the commission. KASU and DDNS will cover these events from Las Vegas across multiple platforms starting Friday, January 17th, and running through Monday, January 20th.

This year’s events theme is “Living the Dream: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future.”