Martinez, CA – In 2020, fifty-two years will have passed since the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. That sobering reminder will serve as a backdrop to Contra Costa County’s 42nd Annual Commemoration of Dr. King’s life and legacy. The Board of Supervisors invites the public to the free community celebration on Tuesday, January 21, 2020 starting at 11 am in Contra Costa County’s Board Chambers located at 651 Pine Street, Martinez, CA.
“Contra Costa County welcomes the public to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and to help us recognize a Humanitarian and a Student Humanitarian whose service had a significant impact on their communities,” said Board Chair, Supervisor Candace Andersen. “In Dr. King’s words, ‘Everybody can be great, because everyone can serve.’ We honor those who serve with distinction and grace.”
The theme of the event is “We Are in This Together”. The celebration will feature keynote speaker, Bisa French, Interim Police Chief of the Richmond Police Department, in Richmond, CA. The interim chief, who has both African American and Latina heritage, became the first woman of color to lead the department. Ms. French will share her perspectives on Dr. King’s legacy.
Countywide recognition will be given to the Adult Humanitarian of the Year, Tamisha Walker, of Richmond, CA and the Student Humanitarian of the Year, Christina Mazzi, a senior at Concord High School. Their stories of leadership, advocacy, and service have impacted Contra Costa County, its residents and communities, and reflect the spirit of Dr. King’s work and achievements.
The program includes entertainment from students from Contra Costa School of Performing Arts and soloist Linda Jackson. After the commemoration, join us outside Board Chambers for a free buffet lunch.
To learn more about this community event, visit www.contracosta.ca.gov/5307. For details on past ceremonies and prior humanitarian winners, visit the Dr. King Ceremony website found in the “Community” section of Contra Costa County’s website.
