Little Rock, Arkansas – Residents and visitors are invited to join city leaders, faith representatives, and the community for the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Unity Service on Sunday, Jan. 18. The annual event, hosted at Saint Mark Baptist Church, 5722 W. 12th St., will begin at 5 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
Mayor Frank Scott, Jr., will lead the event alongside members of the Little Rock Board of Directors, other city officials, and local faith leaders. The service provides an opportunity for the city to come together in reflection and celebration, honoring Dr. King’s life, his legacy, and the ongoing work toward unity and equality in Little Rock.
“Everyone is encouraged to attend this annual event as Arkansas’s capital city remembers the life and legacy of Dr. King and celebrates a unified Little Rock,” city officials said in a statement. The gathering serves as a reminder of the values of justice, community, and compassion that Dr. King championed throughout his life.
The featured speaker for this year’s Unity Service will be Dr. Kelon Duke, pastor of New Jerusalem Primitive Baptist Church in Miami, Florida. Dr. Duke has been recognized for his leadership in faith-based initiatives and community advocacy, bringing decades of experience to his work in inspiring hope, resilience, and civic engagement. Attendees can expect a meaningful message focused on unity, social progress, and the importance of bridging differences within communities.
The Unity Service is part of a series of events across Little Rock and the state of Arkansas commemorating Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Local officials encourage families, students, and community members of all ages to attend, emphasizing that the service is a moment to honor Dr. King’s vision while reinforcing the city’s ongoing commitment to equality and inclusion.
Saint Mark Baptist Church will open its doors to all participants, providing a welcoming space to celebrate Dr. King’s contributions to civil rights, justice, and civic unity. Organizers also note that the event offers an opportunity for residents to engage with local leaders and faith communities in dialogue and fellowship.
The 2026 Unity Service in Little Rock continues a long-standing tradition of honoring Dr. King’s work, inspiring attendees to reflect on the values of courage, service, and collective responsibility. Those planning to attend are encouraged to arrive early to secure seating and participate fully in the evening’s programming, which promises to be both uplifting and thought-provoking.
For more information about the Unity Service and other Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day events in Little Rock, residents can contact the Mayor’s office or visit the city’s official website. The annual celebration remains a cornerstone of community engagement, inviting all citizens to honor a legacy that continues to shape Arkansas and the nation.
