On April 4, 1968, the world lost its most famous civil rights activist, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., when he was slain outside of a motel in Memphis, Tennessee.
While he passed away too soon, Dr. King’s legacy lives on. And on Jan. 18, 2021, families in southeast Michigan can celebrate his life through a variety of special programs, volunteer opportunities and more.
While kids are off from school, parents can use this day as a way to talk about race and diversity. For those in Macomb County looking to get out in the community to honor Dr. King, browse this list of MLK Day events in Macomb County.
Note: Events are displayed based on start time.
Macomb Community College’s MLK Day of Service
Jan. 11-22, 2021
Hundreds of Macomb Community College faculty and students celebrate this national day of service by volunteering at different locations within the community — from the Capuchin Soup Kitchen to Windemere Park to Focus Hope and more. Due to the pandemic, this year’s event will feature service opportunities that families can do from the safety of their home. Registration required.
Macomb County Ministerial Alliance Martin Luther King Jr. Annual Celebration
Jan. 18, 2021
tune into WADL or RTM at 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. for a televised celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, featuring guest keynote speaker, Michigan’s Lieutenant Governor, Garlin Gilchrist.
Tribal Goddess for MLK DayÂ
Jan. 18, 2021Â
Painting with a Twist in Roseville is highlighting MLK Day by inviting locals to come and celebrate by painting an African tribal goddess. Runs 4-7 p.m. Advance registration required.
34th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Holiday Celebration of Macomb County
Jan. 18, 2021
The Interfaith Center for the Racial Justice hosts this free virtual event via YouTube from 6-7 p.m. This year’s theme is Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Courageous. Advance registration required.
#MacombGivesBack in Clinton Township and Sterling Heights
Jan. 18, 2021
The Clinton Township Diversity Committee and the Sterling Heights African American Coalition are encouraging the community to safely recognize and celebrate MLK Day with community service. Those who post on social media performing an act of services anytime on MLK Day with the hashtag #MLKMacombGiveBack will be entered for a chance to win a gift card to a local restaurant or retailer.
Looking to celebrate MLK Day closer to home this year? Check out this roundup of at-home MLK Day service ideas. For more information about living in Macomb County, visit the Make Macomb Your Home website.
This post was originally published in 2020 and is updated regularly.Â