Monday, January 17 is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. So, we thought we’d share the history of his presence in Columbia + what you can do around town to honor his life and legacy.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Columbia connections:
- On September 28, 1959, Dr. King, among other local leaders, attended an honorary banquet at the Township Auditorium. He continued his stay in Columbia and while in town delivered an address at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference at the Township.
- On April 3, 1968, Dr. King was scheduled to appear at a rally at Zion Baptist Church on Washington Street in Columbia. While he wasn’t expected to make a formal address, he was expected to speak. This appearance was canceled and he stayed in Memphis, Tennessee for further work there. On April 4, King was tragically assassinated at the Lorraine Hotel in Memphis at the age of 39.
How can I honor Dr. King?
King Day at the Dome | Mon., Jan. 17 at 10 a.m.
- The annual King Day at the Dome, usually held at the State House, will move to a virtual format again this year. The event will feature Leon Russell, chairman of the NAACP’s National Board of Directors, as keynote speaker.
34th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Virtual Celebration | Mon., Jan. 17 at 4 p.m.
- Congressman James E. Clyburn will be this year’s keynote speaker at the virtual event hosted by the City of Columbia + Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Foundation.
Keep the Midlands Beautiful Volunteer Cleanup | Sat., Jan. 15 at 9 a.m.
- Tomorrow’s Spotless Service Saturday honors Dr. King and the nationally recognized Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service on Monday. This is an opportunity to make a difference in the health and appearance of our community.