Mayor Bobby Sanchez, the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, the Mary McLeod Bethune Club, and the Black Ministers Alliance are cordially inviting the public to join them in honoring the birthday of Reverend Dr Martin Luther King Jr.
The citywide event, scheduled for Monday, January 19, 2026, will focus on the theme “Unity through Civility: Advancing Civil Rights Together.” The keynote address for the event will be delivered by Jan Edwards, President of the New Britain NAACP. The event will begin with light refreshments at 10:00am, followed by the program at 10:30am.
The Rev Dr King remains a cornerstone of US history not only for his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement but for his steadfast commitment to economic equity and progressive reform. His legacy includes historic work against systemic racism, his advocacy for union workers and the “Poor People’s Campaign,” which championed a vision of universal healthcare, guaranteed living wages, and quality education for all. Local advocates in New Britain emphasize that honoring the Rev Dr King requires a commitment to his actual values—standing up for justice and humanity to ensure that New Britain remains an inclusive, rather than divided, community.
The commemorative ceremony will be held at the Roosevelt Campus, located at 40 Goodwin Street. The event is free and open to the public, and all residents are encouraged to attend.
