MLK Day Celebration banner featuring a black and white photo of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The theme text reads ‘Turning Pain into Peace – Living out the Dream.’ Logos for the City of Federal Way and the City of Federal Way Diversity Commission appear on the right over a soft textured background.

"Turning Pain into Peace – Living out the Dream"  - MLK Day Celebration

Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

Black-and-white photo of Martin Luther King Jr. standing at a podium and waving to a large crowd gathered along the National Mall. Above him is an orange quote that reads, ‘Even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream.’ The quote is attributed to Martin Luther King Jr

Join us for a day of reflection, unity, and community celebration!
Join us as we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through this year’s theme, Turning Pain Into Peace – Living Out the Dream. Together, we’ll reflect on his enduring message, hear from inspiring speakers, enjoy meaningful performances, and come together as a community committed to carrying his vision of peace, justice, and unity forward.

Event Details:
Saturday, January 17, 2026
10:30 AM - 1 PM - FREE EVENT

Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center
31510 Pete von Reichbauer Way S
Federal Way, WA 98003

  • Main Program: 10:30 AM - 12 PM
  • Non-Profit Networking: 12 PM - 1 PM
     

Speakers & Performances

Reverend Anthony Thompson wearing a black clerical suit and white collar, smiling in front of a teal background.KEY NOTE SPEAKER - Reverend Anthony Thompson. 

Reverend Anthony Thompson serves as the pastor of Holy Trinity Reformed Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, and is known nationally for his powerful message of forgiveness, healing, and racial reconciliation. In 2015, his wife, Myra Thompson, was among the nine lives lost during the tragic Mother Emanuel AME Church shooting. In the years since, Rev. Thompson has become a prominent voice for unity and grace, sharing his journey toward forgiveness and the path to peace.

He is the author of Called to Forgive: The Charleston Church Shooting, a Victim’s Husband, and the Path to Healing and Peace, a book that reflects on faith, restoration, and the courage to choose forgiveness in the face of unimaginable loss. Rev. Thompson also founded One New Humanity Charleston, an organization dedicated to fostering repentance, reconciliation, and community healing.

Today, he continues to speak across the nation, inspiring audiences with his unwavering belief in compassion, hope, and the transformative power of forgiveness.
 

PERFORMANCES TO BE ANNOUNCED. Check back for more details.

 

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