The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time that we celebrate, commemorate and honor the life, legacy and impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This year MLK Day falls on Monday, Jan. 20. Below is a listing of some local events.
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
RECLAIM MLK COMMUNITY ART BUILD: Join Don’t Shoot Portland in celebrating 11 years of honoring the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Every year, Don’t Shoot Portland invites the community to learn the art of screen printing in support of social justice work. Attendees will make new signage for this years’ community action alongside talented artists and activists, using various mediums for social change and to make a statement. We'll explore different themes and techniques, sharing ideas and inspiration. Free to join at Pacific Northwest College of Art at 511 NW Broadway Portland.
ANNUAL INTER-FAITH SERVICE: The Vancouver Avenue First Baptist Church invites the public to join the 19th Annual Drum Major Ecumenical Services and 20th Annual Pastoral Observance. Theme: "Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365.” Keynote speaker: Rabbi David Kosak of Congregation Neveh Shalom, Portland. Vancouver Avenue First Baptist Church, 3138 North Vancouver Ave., Portland. More info: vafbc.org.
7:00 p.m.
INTERFAITH CAMPUS UNITY VIGIL CELEBRATION: Join us in honoring Dr. King’s legacy of Hope, how Hope resonates throughout all spiritual traditions, and what Hope means for our diverse campus community. An annual tradition and campus favorite, this event will feature gospel, student readings, inspiring reflections, candle lighting & more!
SOLVE MLK DAY OF SERVICE: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the first federal holiday honoring an African American, is observed annually on the third Monday in January. This day of service celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. King., and stands as more than just a day off; it remains the only federal holiday recognized as a National Day of Service, encouraging all Americans to volunteer and contribute to the betterment of their communities. Each year, SOLVE marks this day by hosting volunteer projects that not only honor his life and legacy, but also enhances the environment for everyone. For more details on individual projects, visit solveoregon.org/mlk.
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY OF SERVICE: Black Futures Farm invites the public to its 5th Annual MLK Day of Service event. There will be farm-related projects and tasks for everyone to participate in. Please bring suitable work attire for winter weather and gloves, a water bottle, and gardening tools. Register at blackfutures.farm or contact Nia at [email protected] or Daniel [email protected] with any questions. 6745 SE 60th Ave., Portland.
11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
WORLD ARTS FOUNDATION’S 40TH ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO THE REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.: The Annual Tribute to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. has been recognized as the largest community cultural event of its kind in the State of Oregon. This family-friendly event includes inspiring speakers, live performances celebrating the spirit of the civil rights movement and the Victory Village Marketplace, featuring local vendors. Hyatt Regency, 375 NE Holladay St., Portland.
1 p.m.
RECLAIM MLK 11th ANNUAL MARCH FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AND DIGNITY: Don’t Shoot Portland’s annual March invites members of the community to celebrate King and join the movement for Black Lives, at an event that will center the voices of children who are most vulnerable to the systemic violations of civil liberties. 700 N. Rosa Parks Way, Portland. More info: dontshootpdx.org.
5:30 p.m.
MASS IN ANTICIPATION OF MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY: Please join us in celebrating this special (annual tradition!) Vigil Mass with Archbishop Sample and the African American Catholic Community of Oregon (AACCO) to commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. There will be plenty of seating, so there is no need to RSVP if you will be making your own travel arrangements. St. Mary's Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 1716 NW Davis St, Portland.