Celebration for Dr. MLK Jr. - City of Lakewood

Every year, the city of Lakewood remembers the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to advocate for justice and equality.

In 2025 the city’s recognition event will celebrate Dr. King in two ways. The first is uniting the city’s annual Wellness Walk with its Dr. King celebration.

The community is invited to come together for the MLK Welcome Walk for our Beloved Community on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025 from 12-3 p.m. at Fort Steilacoom Park, 8714 87th Ave SW, Lakewood. The event will include an opportunity for people to connect with friends and meet new people. We’ll have welcome guides to show you where to go when you arrive. Walks are planned around the one-mile paved Waughop Lake trail in the park. There will be staggered start times. Along the lake path various traits of a Beloved Community will be shared, prompting people to think about how they can incorporate these traits into their everyday lives.

Participants will enjoy live music from DJ Super Dave, vendors and food trucks. There will be free giveaways of Beloved Community SWAG, including mugs, tote bags, buttons and bookmarks.

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. There will also be live Jazz from saxophonist Maureese Itson, a spoken word performance by Shaidaja Wilson-Dunham, refreshments and more.

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MLK Day Video

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Prior Celebrations

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.