6 Ways to Celebrate MLK Day in Metro Detroit

Martin Luther King Jr., who was born 91 years ago this month, made a great impact on our country — and city. Here are a few ways you can celebrate him around Metro Detroit this year on January 20.

Originally written for and published by SEEN Magazine.

1. MLK Day Gallery Talks

Monday, Jan. 20, 11:00 a.m.—3:00 p.m.
Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit

Via dia.org

Docents in the DIA will be available in the Detroit Collects exhibition — a collection of African American art from private collectors — to discuss artworks.

Cost: Free with general admission (free for Wayne, Oakland & Macomb County residents)

2. 2020 Detroit MLK Day

Monday, Jan. 20, 12:00 p.m.—3:00 p.m.

Historic St. Matthew’s & St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church, 8850 Woodward, Detroit

Via MLK Day Detroit's Facebook

The day kicks off at noon with a Rally and March for “Jobs, Peace & Justice.” The march is expected to conclude at 3:00 p.m., and will be followed by a celebration at the church featuring food, poetry, and music. Organizers are asking for donations of new winter gear and underwear to be donated to the homeless.

Cost: Free to attend, but donations are welcome.

3. MLK Family Day I Have a Dream Painting

Monday, Jan. 20, 1:00 p.m.—3:00 p.m. Check-in begins at 12:30 p.m.
Painting With a Twist, 200 W. 9 Mile Rd, Ferndale

Via paintingwithatwist.com

Visitors will paint a 16×20 canvas with a scene inspired by Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Pre-registration is required for this event, which is designed for painters age seven or older (but all ages are welcome).

Cost: $27

4. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Breakfast and Celebration

Monday, Jan. 20, 8:00 a.m.—10:00 a.m.
The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, 315 E. Warren St., Detroit

Via Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History's Facebook

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is hosting a full day of celebrations to honor Dr. King’s legacy. Breakfast will be served at 8:00 a.m., featuring an introduction from Rev. Nicholas Hood III and musical selections. That will be followed by a presentation about Dr. King, and the day will continue with free activities including face painting, youth discussions, films and more.

Cost: Varies

5. King: A Filmed Record… Montgomery to Memphis

Monday, Jan. 20, 1:00 p.m.
Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit

Via dia.org

The DIA will be showing this Oscar-nominated documentary, which follows Dr. King’s rise to a Civil Rights Movement leader from 1955 to 1968. Using rare, archived footage from the Library of Congress, viewers will see Dr. King’s speeches, protests, and arrests during this time period.

Cost: Free with general admission (free for Wayne, Oakland & Macomb County residents)

6. 2020 I Have a Dream Virtual Run

Via eventbrite.com

The virtual race can be completed any time during the month of January. Participants choose their own course and distance, time themselves, and report back. The sign-up fee includes a medal featuring a quote from Dr. King and a race bib, and 15% of the proceeds will go to the International Rescue Committee.

Cost: $9-$32