Celebrate the Life and Legacy of MLK Jr.

The city of Aurora, in collaboration with community partners, invites everyone to take part in Aurora's 40th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration. This year's theme, "I Am the Dream," sets the tone for a meaningful January of reflection, service and celebration, honoring Dr. King's life, leadership and lasting impact on society.

The commemoration begins with an opportunity to serve. Community members are invited to participate in a hands-on service project to help beautify two Aurora Fire Rescue stations. Volunteer shifts are available for Friday, Jan. 9, and Saturday, Jan. 10, at Aurora Fire Rescue Station 2, 12600 Hoffman Blvd., and Station 11, 2291 S. Joliet St. Volunteers will assist with priming and painting community rooms that support firefighters and serve neighborhood groups. Food will be provided. Advance registration is required through the Aurora Volunteer Portal at AuroraGov.org/Volunteer.

The commemoration features a variety of events designed to educate, inspire and bring the community together:

• Opening Celebration: The official kickoff event honors the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with dynamic performances that reflect his vision of justice, service and unity. Mayor Mike Coffman will present an official proclamation, followed by a prayer vigil hosted by the Aurora Community of Faith community group. Light refreshments will be available. This event takes place from noon to 1:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12, at the Aurora Municipal Center lobby, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway.

• The Local Legacy of Dr. King: This educational panel discussion explores Dr. King's influence in Colorado and the broader region, highlighting local leaders, stories and movements shaped by his work. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how Dr. King's message continues to resonate within the Aurora community today. This event takes place at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, at the Aurora History Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway. Register at AuroraMuseum.org.

• Interfaith Breakfast: The Interfaith Breakfast brings together faith leaders, community members and partners for a morning of reflection, fellowship and dialogue. This gathering emphasizes unity across diverse beliefs while honoring Dr. King's commitment to understanding and collective action. This event takes place from 8 to 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, at Z New Summit, 411 Sable Blvd. Please RSVP at [email protected].

• NAACP Youth & College Night - I Am the Dream: This event focuses on uplifting and empowering youth and young adults. The event encourages leadership development, civic engagement and reflection on how the next generation can carry forward Dr. King's dream. This event takes place at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, at the Community College of Aurora, 16000 E. Centretech Parkway.

• Service Project- Packing Hygiene Kits: Volunteers will come together to pack hygiene kits for neighbors in need, putting Dr. King's call to service into action. This project offers a tangible way to support community well-being while honoring the spirit of giving back. This event takes place from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at Martin Luther King Jr. Library, 9898 E. Colfax Ave. Advance registration is required through the Aurora Volunteer Portal at AuroraGov.org/Volunteer.

• Wreath-laying Ceremony: The commemoration concludes with a wreath-laying ceremony honoring the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. City leaders, community members and partners will gather in remembrance and reflection. This event takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at Martin Luther King Jr. Library, 9898 E. Colfax Ave.

Community partners include:

• National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Aurora Chapter (NAACP)

• Aurora Community of Faith (ACOF)

• Aurora Human Relations Commission

• Aurora Mental Health & Recovery

• Aurora Library and Cultural Services

• Racial equity and Aurora's Critical Topics (ReACT)

• Aurora MLK Commemoration Steering Committee

For the latest event details, visit AuroraGov.org/MLK. Questions? Email [email protected].