MLK, Jr. Day at The Wright

2025 Theme: The Strength to Dream

This year's theme, "The Strength to Dream: Resilience in the Legacy of Dr. King," highlights his courage and determination in facing adversity.

As we come together to honor Dr. King's commitment to justice, equality, and peace, we are reminded of his deep belief in the power of resilience, unity, and love to create lasting change in our world.

The day features a series of ticketed and free events that provide activities for every age. As we commemorate Dr. King's contributions, we’ll embrace our shared responsibility to promote justice and equality, and reaffirm our collective commitment to carrying forward his legacy.

2025 Schedule

From dynamic conversations with emerging community leaders to film screenings, prayer breakfasts, and more, here are the ways we're reflecting on Dr. King's legacy in 2025.

8 - 9 AM, Rotunda | Annual Prayer Breakfast (Ticketed)

This limited-seating ticketed event includes breakfast, valet service (available until 12:00 pm), keynote with LaTosha Brown, and entry into the museum's exhibitions and free programming throughout the day. Get your tickets now! If you are a member, check your email after 12/11/24 for a special discount code for the event.
(Note doors open at 7:30am) 

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9 AM - 5 PM, Galleries | Exhibitions Open (Ticketed)

Tour The Wright's visiting and permanent exhibitions.

Explore Exhibitions

9:30 AM, General Motors Theater | The Wright Conversations, Featuring LaTosha Brown (Ticketed)

Martin Luther King's Day Keynote

LaTosha Brown, co-founder of the Black Voters Matter Fund, will deliver a powerful keynote address on MLK Day Janurary 20, 2025.

Her speech will explore the critical need for African Americans and all disenfranchised members of our community to exercise the right to vote as a means of achieving social justice. Her remarks will also highlight the healing power of love amidst personal grief and loss.

Brown emphasizes that understanding our shared humanity requires embracing pain and compassion providing a perfect start to the Wright’s annual celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.'s enduring legacy.

Highlights

• Q&A session
• Insights on Black voting rights and social justice

Get Tickets (keynote only)

Note: This event, held in the GM Theater after the MLK Day Annual Prayer Breakfast, requires a ticket. You may purchase a Keynote-Only ticket (limited availability) or a ticket for the MLK Breakfast (which includes access to the keynote).

11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, General Motors Theater | The Evers Film Screening + Talkback (Free)

Step into history with The Evers, a profoundly moving documentary that brings to life the extraordinary story of Medgar and Myrlie Evers-two monumental figures of the American Civil Rights Movement. This film intricately weaves rare archival footage, heartfelt interviews, and dramatic reenactments to portray their courageous fight for equality and justice vividly. 

Join Reena Evers-Everette, their daughter and Executive Director of the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Institute, for a special screening and conversation. Reena's reflections will provide unique insight into their legacy. She will share her journey and the enduring impact of her parents' work on today's fight for civil rights. Take this chance to engage deeply with a pivotal chapter in American history. 

Medgar Evers, the NAACP Field Secretary in Mississippi, Medgar Evers was a beacon of hope in a time of pervasive injustice. From leading voter registration drives to challenging segregation head-on, he tirelessly advocated for the rights and dignity of Black Americans. His tragic assassination on June 12, 1963, sent shockwaves across the nation, catalyzing the movement and illuminating the urgent need for change. 

Myrlie Evers, his steadfast partner in life and purpose, refused to let his sacrifice be in vain. Rising as a voice for justice, she championed the causes they once fought for together, transforming grief into action. Her decades-long dedication to civil rights, community leadership, and preserving her husband's legacy solidified her as a trailblazer in her own right. 

The film recounts their personal and collective struggles and explores the broader historical context of their efforts. It serves as a testament to the power of resilience, the enduring fight for justice, and the transformative impact of individuals who dare to challenge systems of oppression. 

Through this screening, we honor the Evers' commitment to equality and invite viewers to reflect on their lasting contributions to shaping a more just and equitable America. 

Event is free - limited space (first come first served)

Various Times, Latimer Cafe | Art as a Bridge: Healing and Unity Workshop for all ages (Free)

Workshop repeats every hour from 10am – 2pm (5 sessions)

This interactive workshop explores how art can be a powerful healing tool and foster connection in the spirit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy of unity and reconciliation. Participants will engage in artistic practices that promote reflection, dialogue, and collective healing. Through guided activities and discussions, they will explore how creative expression can bridge divides and inspire community transformation.

Each session will include:  

• Introduction: Workshop goals and how it will connect individuals and communities.  
• Activity: Paint-by-number segment focused on calming and grounding tones.  
• Reflection: Group shares their progress and thoughts on how collaboration enhances healing.

Various Times, Wright Community Room | Read for Justice: MLK Family Storytelling Celebration (Free)

Three Reading Slots: 12pm – 1pm; 2pm – 3pm; 4pm – 5pm

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy with an inspiring and engaging family reading program! Join beloved storytellers Mama Jatu and Bibi TJ as they bring stories to life, captivating children and families with warm, animated reading from books that reflect the values of justice, equality, and community values.

During this special MLK holiday event, families can enjoy an enriching storytelling experience that entertains and sparks conversations about essential themes of the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King's vision for a better world. With a diverse selection of books centered around social justice, kindness, and empowerment, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

This year, we're excited to expand the program by introducing new books to our collection, offering even more meaningful stories for children of all ages. As a bonus, we'll be giving away books to families so the learning and inspiration can continue at home! Every child can share this powerful experience with them, encouraging a lifelong love for reading and understanding Dr. King's enduring message.

Be a part of this uplifting celebration of storytelling, community, and family connection. Mark your calendars, bring your loved ones, and honor Dr. King's legacy together through the joy of reading!

Various Times, Wright Community Room | Step into the Story: The Montgomery Bus Boycott (Free)

Two performance times: 1pm – 2pm; 3pm – 4pm

Become a part of history and shine like stars! Join us for a unique, family-friendly experience as you step into the shoes of those who made history during the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Immerse yourself in a live, homegrown reenactment of this pivotal 1955 event, where you and your loved ones can actively participate in retelling this powerful story of courage and resilience.

With a quick rehearsal and in just one hour, you and your family will be ready to take the stage alongside talented actors from Detroit's vibrant theatrical community.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or a first-timer, this is a unique opportunity to honor history, connect with your family, and bring the story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott to life.

9 AM - 5 PM, Various Locations | Wright in Sight: MLK Day AR Treasure Hunt (Free)

This year, we invite you to embark on an immersive journey through our brand-new AR Treasure Hunt. This interactive adventure transforms your smartphone or tablet into a gateway to history. As you navigate the museum's halls, you'll encounter hidden QR codes that, when scanned, reveal a world of digital surprises—exclusive videos, 3D artifacts, and immersive clues that bring the life and legacy of Dr. Charles H. Wright to vivid life.

Each discovery offers a deeper understanding of Dr. Wright's contributions to civil rights and healthcare while providing insights into the museum's rich history. This engaging experience is designed to challenge your mind, spark curiosity, and lead you on a path to celebrating the museum's monumental 60th anniversary in 2025.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a tech lover, or simply looking for a fun and educational experience for the whole family, this AR Treasure Hunt promises to be an unforgettable way to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Dr. Charles H. Wright.

Uncover hidden stories, test your problem-solving skills, and see history through a new lens! Take advantage of this one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience history like never before.

7 - 9 PM, General Motors Theater | Soul of the Dream: A Night Honoring MLK (Free)

This event is a transformative event dedicated to celebrating the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Through a powerful blend of artistic expression; this evening will pay tribute to the vision, courage, and sacrifices of Dr. King and countless other freedom fighters who shaped the course of history.

The event will feature original performances by local artists inspired by selected themes from the And Still We Rise galleries. These themes will be brought to life through live painting, spoken word poetry, and other dynamic forms of creative expression. Each performance is thoughtfully curated to explore the rich tapestry of the Civil Rights Movement, connecting the struggles and triumphs of the past to the ongoing fight for justice and equality today.

Through this night of cultural celebration, we aim to ignite the spirit of unity and remind us all of the enduring relevance of Dr. King's message in our present-day struggles for freedom and human dignity.

This is a free event but registration is required.

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