Monday, Jan. 19., is the day set aside for us to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. His works changed a nation, and his beliefs gave him the strength to do so.
Our sister publication, Little Rock Family, compiled a list of events in central Arkansas commemorating the civil rights leader, which we’ve shared here. Grab your loved ones and check them out.
A Day of Service-A Day On, Not A Day Off at Benton Events Center: The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission hosts this two-part event in observance of the holiday. At 10 a.m., keynote speaker “Young and the Restless” actor Eric Braeden and Miss Arkansas 2014 Ashton Campbell will take the stage. Then the AMLKC will host a day of service that includes feeding the homeless, health screenings, job counseling and hygiene kits. There’s also an American Red Cross blood drive, as well as a Coats for Kids collection. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For info: (501) 683-1300, ARKingDream.org.
Annual Interfaith Prayer Breakfast at St. Mark Baptist Church: This yearly gathering will feature Dr. Christopher Davis, senior pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee, as well as Pastor Phillip Porter (St. Mark Baptist Church) and Mr. DuShun Scarborough (AMLKC). This event is open to the public, but call ahead to inquire about seats. 7:30 a.m. For info: (501) 683-1300, ARKingDream.org.
Free Bus Rides Sponsored by AMLKC and Central Arkansas Transit: CAT will offer free bus rides throughout the metropolitan area. Whether you just take a lap or have a community service project to get to, citizens are urged to “Get On the Bus.” For info: (501) 683-1300, ARKingDream.org.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Festivities in Downtown Hot Springs: The day begins with a downtown parade, followed by more celebration and programs at the Hot Springs Convention Center in Horner Hall. For info: (501) 762-6103, HotSprings.org.
Screening of “King” at Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: Where better to watch this documentary than in one of our city’s most important landmarks? You can catch screenings of the documentary showing continuously throughout the day. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For info: (501) 374-1957, NPS.gov/CHSC.
Storytime at Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: A Reading of “My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” written by Martin Luther King III will be followed by activities for all ages. 10 a.m. For info: (501) 374-1957, NPS.gov/CHSC.
For more central Arkansas events, browse Little Rock Family’s full online calendar here.