Martin Luther King III Keynote Speaker for MLK Celebration

The YMCA of Greater Charlotte to welcome Martin Luther King III as keynote speaker for the 27th annual MLK Holiday Celebration.

On January 18, the YMCA of Greater Charlotte will host the 27th annual MLK Holiday Celebration virtually to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Featured in the 2021 MLK Holiday Celebration is 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. Local community leaders will join the online discussion focused on justice, equity, diversity and inclusion.

Through the support of generous sponsors, the virtual event is offered free of charge. All proceeds will provide life-transforming programs for youth and families at the McCrorey YMCA — founded in 1936 as an African-American YMCA — providing opportunities for spiritual growth, learning and leadership development for the black community in Charlotte.

“Since its founding, this event has gathered Charlotteans in celebration of diversity and Dr. King’s legacy,” said Dena Paulding, the district executive director of the McCrorey and Stratford Richardson YMCAs, in a statement. “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.”

For almost twenty years, Mr. King has motivated audiences around the world with his message of hope and responsibility, and his vision of the future. 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 largest advocates for the poor, the oppressed and the disillusioned. He’s also been actively involved in 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 multiple initiatives to provide employment opportunities for high school students and connect young African-American males with positive adult role models.

The 27th annual MLK Holiday Celebration program will begin at 9:00 a.m. ET on the YMCA of Greater Charlotte’s Facebook page.