Honoring the Legacy of One of America’s Most Iconic Visionaries  

No figure embodies the spirit and legacy of the Civil Rights Movement more powerfully than Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For decades, communities nationwide have come together each January to celebrate his memory and principles. This year, the Martin Luther King Jr. Coalition of Madison & Dane County will host a series of special events honoring Dr. King, culminating in the 41st annual City-County MLK Day Observance on Monday, January 19th, at the Overture Center’s Capitol Theater.

Marc Lamont Hill, a nationally recognized thought leader and advocate for justice, will deliver the keynote address at the 2026 event.

Hill is an acclaimed academic, author, activist, journalist, and television personality. Renowned for his work as a cultural anthropologist and critical scholar, he focuses on race, education, citizenship, social justice, and public policy. Currently, he serves as a Presidential Professor at the City University of New York (CUNY) Graduate Center, and has previously held distinguished positions at Temple University and Columbia University.

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Hill hosts Al Jazeera English’s “UpFront,” contributes to BET News, and co-hosts popular podcasts, including “The Joe Budden Podcast.” He has helmed programs on VH1, HuffPost Live, and more. As a leading voice for social justice, abolition, and community organizing, Hill has authored several books and is a driving force in public conversations on culture, politics, and Black issues.

The program will feature the MLK Humanitarian Award, presented by Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway and Dane County Executive Melissa Agard. Attendees will also enjoy inspiring performances from the MLK Community Choir, led by Leotha and Tamera Stanley.

For more information on this free event, visit here.

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