The 43rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Service & Awards will be in-person and will also be streamed on Facebook and YouTube starting at 10:30am on Monday, January 19th, 2026.
The Memorial Service theme, “A Time for Vigorous and Positive Action,” reflects the MLK Center’s commitment to inspiring change through service, unity, and a shared dedication to justice and equity throughout the Quad Cities community.
The program will include a variety of performances and presentations in honor of Dr. King, and two scholarships will be awarded. The “I Have A Dream” Award will be presented to a Rock Island citizen for exemplary community service and enormous contributions made to the community.
We are now accepting nominations for the “I Have A Dream Award 2026.” Nominate a Rock Island citizen who has demonstrated outstanding community service and made a lasting impact on our community.
Click here to submit your nomination by Friday, December 19, 2025.
Ms Janet Lockhart-Johnson with Layla Rice, the winner of the ML Lockhart scholarship.
The M.L. Lockhart Scholarship is now open for Rock Island High School seniors. Students with a 2.5 GPA or higher who demonstrate financial need are encouraged to apply.
Click here to submit your application by Friday, December 19, 2025.
Ceremonial Host Rita Jett and Youth Expression winner Zakiya Dade
The MLK Center’s Youth Expression Contest is now open for submissions. Students are invited to share their voice through a poem, spoken word piece, essay, short story, or short skit based on the theme “A Time for Vigorous and Positive Change.”
Entries may be submitted by email to mlkmail@rigov.org, mailed to 630 9th Street, Rock Island, IL 61201, faxed to 309-732-2991, or delivered in person a the MLK Center during operating hours, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
All entries are due no later than
Friday, December 19, 2025.
A recording of this event will be available afterwards on our Facebook page, website, and YouTube channel.
For more information, please call 309 732 2999 or email mlkmail@rigov.org