The YMCA of Greater Charlotte is proud to host the 27^th annual MLK Holiday Celebration on January 18, 2021. This year’s event will be offered virtually and promises to be a powerful event to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The 2021 MLK Holiday Celebration will feature noted civil rights activist, global humanitarian and political leader Martin Luther King III, the oldest son of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King. He will be joined by local community leaders for an online discussion focused on justice, equity, diversity and inclusion.

For nearly twenty years, Mr. King has motivated audiences around the world with his insightful message of hope and responsibility, and his vision of the future has touched thousands. Mr. King’s dedication to strategic nonviolent action and ridding the world of social, political and economic injustice has propelled him to the forefront as one of the nation’s most ardent advocates for the poor, the oppressed and the disillusioned, and he’s been actively involved in significant policy initiatives to maintain the fair and equitable treatment of all citizens, at home and abroad. Committed to the personal, educational and skill development of youth, Mr. King has launched several initiatives to provide employment opportunities for high school students and connect young African-American males with positive adult role models.

“Since its founding, this event has gathered Charlotteans in celebration of diversity and Dr. King’s legacy,” says Dena Paulding, district executive director of the McCrorey and Stratford Richardson YMCAs. “Although we’re gathering virtually this year, we are thrilled to hear from a leader like Mr. King who has devoted his life to continuing his parents’ quest for equality and justice for all people.”

This special virtual event is offered free of charge through the generous support of sponsors. Proceeds from the event provide life-transforming programs for youth and families at the McCrorey YMCA in Charlotte’s northwest corridor. Founded in 1936 as an African-American YMCA in a segregated nation, the McCrorey YMCA provided opportunities for spiritual growth, learning and leadership development for the black community in Charlotte.

The 27^th annual MLK Holiday Celebration program begins at 9:00 a.m. on the YMCA of Greater Charlotte’s Facebook page. Learn more here.  

###