The city of Aurora, in collaboration with community partners, invites everyone to join Aurora’s 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration. This year’s theme, “Let Freedom Ring,” sets the tone for a month-long celebration honoring Dr. King’s legacy and enduring impact on society with events open for all. 

Kick off the festivities with an Opening Celebration, Prayer Vigil, and Proclamation Reading from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13, in the Aurora Municipal Center lobby and Paul Tauer Council Chamber, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway. The evening will feature inspiring performances celebrating Dr. King’s life and legacy. Refreshments will be provided, and no registration is required to attend. 

The commemoration includes a variety of engaging events throughout January: 

• At the Table with Dr. King: Experience a captivating virtual musical performance that immerses audiences in the sights and sounds of the American Civil Rights Movement. 
• Aurora Speaks: Poetry and Prose Reading: Join Aurora Poet Laureate Ahja Fox at the Aurora History Museum for a celebration of the Aurora Speaks exhibit featuring citizen poetry. 
• Interfaith Breakfast: Enjoy an inspiring morning with guest speaker Jatour Johnson of Conqueror’s Circle, a youth mentorship and leadership program. 
• Film Fest: View powerful films created by students from the Community College of Aurora. 
• Wreath-Laying Ceremony: Join city officials and community members in honoring Dr. King’s legacy. 
• Community Service Project: Assemble hygiene kits and care items for Aurora Public Schools students and families in need. 
• MLK Marade: Participate in the annual Marade (march and parade) organized by the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Colorado Holiday Commission. 
• MLK African-American Heritage Rodeo: Celebrate Black Western Heritage and the contributions of legendary figures like Bill Pickett. 
• And more! 

Please note some events require registration. Visit AuroraGov.org/MLK for details and to sign up. 

"We are honored to present this series of events as a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of Dr. King,” said Sara Valencich, Aurora’s People, Culture, and Belonging Officer. “These impactful programs are a testament to the shared vision and dedication of our incredible community partners." 

Don’t miss this meaningful opportunity to celebrate, reflect, and continue the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

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 
• Justice Necessary 
• Racial equity and Aurora's Critical Topics (ReACT) 
• Mizel Museum  
• Aurora MLK Commemoration Steering Committee 

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