46th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ceremony

Martin Luther King Jr. Ceremony 2024 Save the Date

Contra Costa County seeks nominations for Humanitarians of the Year to be recognized during the 46th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ceremony. 

The deadline to submit candidates for consideration is Monday, Oct. 23.

The event will commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 16. In the spirit of Dr. King’s work, this year’s theme is “Beloved Community.” 

The Board of Supervisors plans to recognize two individuals, (1) a community member and (2) a student leader, whose dedication to others embodies the spirit and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the January event.

Nominate a community member and/or student whose accomplishments and actions go above and beyond to positively impact Contra Costa County, its residents, and communities. Please nominate candidates who demonstrate leadership, commitment to the community, and personal integrity.

Submit nominations.

45th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ceremony

Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors thanks everyone who attended the 45th annual tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on January 17, 2023.

The Supervisors recognized the 2023 Humanitarian of the Year, Cheryl Suddeth, El Sobrante resident and Contract Services Manager for the Alameda – Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit), and the Student Humanitarian of the Year, Ava Freeman, a senior at Acalanes High School in Lafayette. Their passionate leadership, advocacy, and community service have improved the lives of Contra Costa County residents and reflect the spirit of Dr. King’s work and achievements. The keynote speaker was Tony Thurmond, California State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Superintendent Thurmond lives in Contra Costa County and is the first Afro-Latino to hold this statewide office. He is an educator, social worker, and public school parent who has served the people of California for more than 15 years and will share his perspective on Dr. King’s legacy. 

The program also included entertainment from the Grown Women Dance Collective, spoken word performers Camille Miller, TJ Sykes, and Liberty High School (in Brentwood) Chamber Singers.

Watch the 45th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Ceremony.