MLK – Idaho Human Rights Day celebration takes place at State Capitol, Jan. 19

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: Jan. 16, 2026
Media Contact: Ben Earwicker, J.D., Ph.D., [email protected], 208-696-2448

Monday, Jan. 19, will mark the 39th year that Idaho has celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. - Idaho Human Rights Day, first commemoratively and later as a state holiday.

The public is invited to attend ceremonies in the State Capitol's second-floor rotunda beginning at noon and concluding at 1 p.m.

Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke will present the state proclamation. Idaho Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Administrator Benjamin Earwicker and IHRC Commissioners will be speaking at the event.

Performances include Boise State University Trumpet Studio under the direction of Zach Buie and Derek Ganong, Denise Roque Vargas, Danza Boricua, the Oinkari Basque Dancers, Odissi Natya Sala Boise and Danza Azteca Tonatiuh.

Serve Idaho, the Governor's Commission on Service and Volunteerism, will be hosting a service project table decorating and writing notes of encouragement for seniors. In addition, Serve Idaho will accept diapers and wipes for the Idaho Diaper Bank with a specific request for diaper sizes of 4, 5 and 6. Visit the Serve Idaho website for more information.

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The Idaho Human Rights Commission enforces state and federal anti-discrimination laws in Idaho and provides mediation services to resolve complaints. The Commission also provides free training for businesses and organizations throughout the state.

Web: https://humanrights.idaho.gov/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IdahoHumanRights

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