TOLEDO, Jan. 4, 2024: The City of Toledo, in collaboration with the University of Toledo and the Human Relations Commission, announcing the 2024 MLK Experience and Unity Day Celebration to honor civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The theme for the 23rd annual Unity Day Celebration is “I AM the Dream.”
MLK’s message of nonviolence and his efforts to promote racial equality continue to inspire people around the world to work towards creating a more just and equal society.
On Friday, January 12, 2024, the MLK Experience will kick off with open-mic and Poetry Night at Lucille’s Jazz Lounge. The theme is Celebrating 50 Years of Hip Hop. The doors open at 7:15 p.m. and performances will begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are available in the range of $10 to $32, providing an opportunity for everyone to participate in the celebration of poetry and spoken word. It promises to be a night filled with inspiration and cultural resonance, setting the tone for a weekend dedicated to honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.
On Saturday, January 13, the celebration continues with the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s 32nd Annual MLK Scholarship Breakfast. The event commemorates the achievements of our College Scholarship Awardees in an event dedicated to fostering education and community support.
Sunday, January 14, Rest, Rejoice, and Restoration
This a day for Rest, Rejoicing, and Restoration at the place of your choosing.
On Monday, January 15, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. join the Human Relations Commission and the University of Toledo for a powerful Unity Day Celebration hosted by Alexis Means. The event will be virtual and streamed on the City of Toledo’s Facebook page, BCAN, and the University of Toledo’s website featuring influential guest speakers and local performers.
The keynote speaker Rosa Alicia Clemente, an influential organizer, independent journalist, producer, and scholar activist, will highlight the event. Born and raised in the Bronx, NY, Clemente is renowned for her activism and advocacy in the Black-Latinx community. She is the first Afro-Latina woman to run for Vice-President in 2008.
Toledo native Darryl Brown, founder and creative director of Midwest Kids, Inc. and Darryl Brown LLC, will speak during the event. Their discussion on “I AM the Dream” promises to be a highlight, inspiring reflection and engagement at the Unity Day Celebration.
Other speakers include:
- Darryl Brown, Founder and Creative Director of Midwest Kids Inc.,
and Darryl Brown LLC. - Dr. Gregory Postel, President of the University of Toledo
- Mayor Wade Kapzukiewicz
- Rep. Marcy Kaptur
- Sen. Sherrod Brown
- Gabrielle Mukiira, Kid Mayor
- Malaika Bell, Director UT’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Erin Baker, Chair of the City of Toledo Human Relations Commission
Special Performances by:
- Alexis Means + Toledo Opera
- Hip Hop Poetry Cypher
- JP Dynasty
- Tahyah Dance Studio
- Friendship/UT Choir
- My5tery Music Band
- Nikki D and The Browns
The event promises a day filled with inspiration, unity, and community harmony. Watch performances he event will be virtual and will be streamed on the City of Toledo’s Facebook page, BCAN, and the University of Toledo’s website or at the Human Relations Commission.
For more information or to buy tickets visit: toledo.oh.gov/mlk
On Monday, January 15, the Toledo Museum of Art will open its doors from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. as a gathering place to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Event offers free programs and artwork that celebrate Black artists and culture including Silent Hip Hop to celebrate the MLK Experience.