CLICK HERE: Monday, January 19, 2026 Colorado Springs to Honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with 2026 Celebration: submitted by the Event Diva

[Juanita Martin]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Save the Date: 

Monday, January 19, 2026 Colorado Springs to Honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with 2026 Celebration: “Mission Possible II – Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way”

Each year, the King Holiday Observance in Colorado Springs honors the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the transformative power of his vision. In 2026, the community will come together under the strategic theme “Mission Possible II: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way.” Presented in collaboration with the Pikes Peak Diversity Council (PPDC), the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy Preservation Society, the NAACP, and the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS), this year’s celebration invites residents and visitors alike to reflect on Dr. King’s message of unity, justice, and nonviolence — and to continue his work through community engagement and compassionate action.

Key Events – Monday, January 19, 2026

MLK Prayer Breakfast & Freedom March

The Antlers Hotel, 4 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs Doors open 7:00 a.m. | Program begins 8:00 a.m. Free admission – registration required. Educational Panel Discussion ENT Center for the Arts

5225 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80918

3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. The 2026 MLK Prayer Breakfast will feature Yolanda Renee King, granddaughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King, as the keynote speaker.

Following the breakfast there will be a Freedom March. Attendees will be walking from the hotel to Acacia Park - Monday at 10 a.m. Don’t miss this powerful morning of inspiration and fellowship.

Later in the day at the ENT Center for the Arts, Yolanda Renee King, granddaughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King, will lead an educational panel engaging with students and community members about leadership, nonviolence, and the power of youth activism.

Watch one of Yolanda’s messages on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C2xeqjBxXGv/?igsh=MXB0MHBydnl0Y2RwNA==

About Yolanda Renee King

Yolanda Renee King is the only granddaughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King, and the daughter of Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King. Born into a legacy of courage and compassion, Yolanda has embraced her family’s mission by becoming a youth activist, public speaker, and author who inspires new generations to stand for justice, peace, and equality. At just 15 years old, Yolanda has already become a national voice for social change. 

She is an advocate for nonviolence, gun safety, climate action, and voting rights, continuing the work of her grandparents through her involvement with The King Center in Atlanta — founded by Coretta Scott King to advance the principles of Dr. King’s philosophy and nonviolent social change. Yolanda has spoken at major national events, including the March for Our Lives Rally in Washington, D.C., where she delivered a passionate speech about her dream of a world free from violence and hate. She has also appeared on programs and panels promoting youth civic engagement and the importance of love-centered leadership. 

In 2023, Yolanda co-authored the illustrated children’s book We Dream a World, inspired by her family’s legacy and her personal vision for a peaceful, equitable world. Her message continues to inspire millions through appearances, public readings, and her active role in The King Center’s educational outreach. Yolanda embodies the belief that “nonviolence is a love-centered way of thinking, speaking, acting, and engaging that leads to personal, cultural, and societal transformation.” Her visit to Colorado Springs in 2026 reflects her commitment to uplifting youth voices and empowering communities to unite the nation through compassion and courage.

Theme and Purpose

This year’s theme, “Mission Possible II: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way,” highlights the continued relevance of Dr. King’s message in today’s divided world. It serves as a call to action for individuals and institutions to work together to build understanding, strengthen connections, and champion nonviolent solutions to modern challenges.

About the Partnering Organizations

Pikes Peak Diversity Council (PPDC): The PPDC identifies, cultivates, and convenes community-focused stakeholders to promote a shared vision for an inclusive and healthy society. The Council strengthens relationships built on trust, respect, and appreciation for diverse talents and perspectives. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy Preservation Society: Dedicated to advancing Dr. King’s mission, the Society inspires individuals and organizations to uphold the values of justice, equality, and nonviolence through education, activism, and dialogue. NAACP: The NAACP continues its mission to ensure political, educational, social, and economic equality for all persons and to eliminate race-based discrimination across the nation. University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS): A premier comprehensive research university, UCCS provides students with academically rigorous and life-enriching experiences while broadening access to higher education for the benefit of southern Colorado and beyond.

Media Contact

Pikes Peak Diversity Council 

[e-mail] 

www.ppdiversitycouncil.org

Rachel Stovall

Community Advocate

Columnist 

Coordinator of Events 

719-373-7449