39th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Countywide Celebration

Featured Keynote Speaker: Rev. B.J. Tatum

Doors open: 4pm

The cities of Champaign and Urbana join with Champaign County, the village of Rantoul, Parkland College, and the University of Illinois to commemorate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This event will feature a performance by the Community Choir and the presentation of three prestigious awards to community members whose work embodies the values and teachings of Dr. King.

The James R. Burgess Jr.–Susan Freiburg Humanitarian Award: honoring the humanitarian efforts of individuals who have contributed to the basic human dignity of those in need.
Marco Price, 2024 recipient

The Doris Hoskins Prestigious Community Service Award: honoring individuals who engage in improving the well-being of Champaign County.
Rev. Herbert D. Burnett, 2024 recipient

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Outstanding Achievement Award: honoring individuals or organizations that work for social justice in the spirit of Dr. King. The principles of justice that Dr. King espoused include promoting equal rights for all persons regardless of race, religion, economic status, or physical or mental ability.
Minnie Pearson, 2024 recipient