Everyone Welcome
Are 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 channels.
2026 Observance Program
The 2026 program theme is “If you can’t fly, run; if you can’t run, walk; if you can’t walk, crawl; but by all means keep moving.” During the program the 2026 John R. Larkins Award will be presented to a state employee who demonstrates extraordinary commitment to equality and justice in the workplace and dedication to improving conditions in local communities through volunteerism and community service.
The NC Martin Luther King Jr. Commission will have canned food donation boxes available at the entrances of First Baptist Church. In-person attendees are asked to bring a canned or other nonperishable food item to help support area fod programs.