NC Martin Luther King Jr. Commission

NC Martin Luther King Jr. Commission

History of the Commission

The Commission works to encourage appropriate ceremonies and activities throughout the state relating to the observance of the legal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. It also works to promote among the people of North Carolina an awareness and appreciation of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The commission is governed by General Statute 143B-426.34A and General Statute 143B-426.34B.

2026 State Employees' MLK Observance Program

All are invited to attend the annual State Employees’ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance Program Friday, Jan. 16, 2026 at 11:45 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 101 South Wilmington Street, Raleigh. Street parking is limited, so attendees working in the downtown area are encouraged to walk or carpool.

Those unable to attend in person can watch the program live on either the Governor's YouTube or DNCR’s YouTube

Digital Access & Opportunity in North Carolina Panel Discussion

On May 7, 2025, the NC Martin Luther King Jr.  Commission hosted a virtual panel discussion on digital access and opportunity in North Carolina.

The MLK Commission welcomed speakers and experts from the Department of Information Technology and the Department of Adult Corrections for a meaningful discussion on digital access and broadband opportunities throughout North Carolina, with attendees learning about the impact digital access can have, as well as ongoing programs, resources and other opportunities. 

Resource Document

Letter from Birmingham City Jail 60th Anniversary

About the Commission

The Commission consists of 16 members. Membership includes:

  • 12 Governor appointees, including the chair
  • Two appointees by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate
  • Two appointees by the Speaker of the House of Representative

Get Connected!

If you are interested in staying informed of the latest developments of the NC Martin Luther King Jr. Commission, please submit the below form. The Commission greatly appreciates your interest and passion for the work of Dr. King.

MLK Commission Connection Form

Want to Serve? Find Your Fit!

Members of the public interested in joining one of the over 300 North Carolina boards and commissions can apply for Governor appointment online. If interested in joining a DOA board or commission, you can also reach out to jordan.etters@doa.nc.gov for more information and to be considered when there are open positions.

Meeting Dates

Commission Meetings
Jan. 28, 2026

For meeting minutes, email Jordan Etters jordan.etters@doa.nc.gov

Commission Members

Member NameCityCountyAppointed By
Catherine Williamson-HardyDurhamDurhamGovernor
Cheryl HartOxfordGranvilleGovernor
Dr. Charles JohnsonCaryWakeGovernor
Dr. Tiffany TumaRaleighWakeGovernor
Jennifer NehlsenBlack MountainBuncombeGovernor
Laureen G. JonesFranklintonFranklinSenate Pro Tem
Marcus R. BassRaleighWakeGovernor
Mildred ChristmasRaleighWakeGovernor
Patricia LevitinGreensboroGuilfordGovernor
Phyllis Mack HortonHillsboroughOrangeGovernor
Resha Peregrino-BrimahEast BendYadkinHouse Speaker
Rev. Dr. Warren HerndonDurhamGranvilleGovernor
Roosevelt EthridgeWilsonWilsonHouse Speaker
Vacant  Senate Pro Tem
Vacant  Governor
Walter R. Ferguson IISanfordLeeGovernor