Every year, the city of Lakewood remembers the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to advocate for justice and equality.
The 2025 event will celebrate Dr. King in two ways. The first is uniting the city’s annual Wellness Walk with its Dr. King celebration. Everyone is invited to the MLK Welcome Walk for our Beloved Community on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025 at Fort Steilacoom Park, 8714 87th Ave SW, Lakewood.
The second event is an art reception on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025 from 5-7 p.m. in the foyer of Lakewood City Hall, 6000 Main Street SW. The work of artist Rodney King will be featured.
Majority, Minority City
2020 census data revealed that Lakewood is one of the few cities in our state where our Black, Indigenous and people of color comprise over 50% of the total population. Diversity and vibrant cultural heritage are defining assets of Lakewood. Our city is a mix of languages, art, dance, culture, history, heritage, visions, and values.
The City’s MLK, Jr. Day videos celebrate that shared heritage. They gather visions and performances from the community in testimony to the value of equality and community.
2024 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Video Series
The City of Lakewood MLK Committee commissioned three videos for its annual recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 2024. The theme explores how Lakewood youth relate to the teachings and work of King. Students were asked to reflect on this famous King quote:
“If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But no matter what, you have to keep moving forward.”
All Lakewood residents are encouraged to watch the videos. The first aired Jan. 15, 2024 to kick-off the city’s recognition of the holiday. The second video aired Jan. 22, 2024. You can watch them below.
MLK Committe Presents: 2024 Video Series episode 3
MLK Committee Presents: 2024 Video Series episode 2
MLK Committee Presents: 2024 Video Series episode 1
Sponsors
Thank you to our generous sponsors.
Prior Celebrations
2023 Martin Luther King Jr. video series: Lakewood Heroes
In 2023, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. the city of Lakewood featured six local heroes who give back to their community.
The theme was “Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve.” The videos were shared daily from Jan. 10 to Jan. 16, 2023.
Day 1: Gavin Reeber & Day 2: Deputy Mayor Mary Moss
Day 3: Lua Pritchard & Day 4: LeMarco Mitchell
Day 5: Anthony Veliz & Day 6: Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.