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Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

The MLK Jr. Week of Celebration is part of a campus-wide initiative to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., his legacy, and his ideals. Carolina began its celebrations of Dr. King’s life and legacy long before there was a federal holiday. UNC is the only university ever awarded the “Making of the King Holiday Award” by the former MLK Jr. Federal Holiday Commission. UNC-CH engages in honoring King’s legacy through several efforts including a community celebration, day of service, lecture & awards ceremony, and a unity event.

The University Office for Diversity and Inclusion hosts this Week of Celebration in partnership with the Carolina Union Activities Board and Student Life & Leadership.

  • The MLK Jr. Community Celebration, during which the MLK Jr./Edith Wiggins Scholarship, Bridge Builders, and MLK Jr. Citizenship awards are presented.
  • The MLK Jr. Lecture and Awards Ceremony, during this event the University awards the MLK Jr. and Harvey Beech scholarships. The MLK Jr. Unsung Hero Awards are also presented at the ceremony.
  • The MLK Jr. Day of Service is dedicated to encouraging and empowering members of the Carolina community to participate in a campus-wide service project.
  • The MLK Jr. Unity Event brings students, community leaders, organizations, and local residents together to recognize, appreciate, and support the various cultures, backgrounds, and identities that define Carolina’s campus.

Theme: The Time is Now

“The time is always right to do what is right.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

It’s never too late to stand up for justice, against what we consider wrong or immoral. We must all stand against injustice and things that deter us from our values as a community. It’s never too late to turn around or start over.

2024 MLK Week of Celebration Dates: