Honoring the Life and Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

Each year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Indiana University faculty, staff, students, and the community at large reflect on his life and legacy. As a community, we collaboratively envision ways to carry forward his work and participate in impactful, inclusive, and engaging programming which honors Dr. King in a manner relevant today.

Through a range of activities, workshops, films, panel discussions, and acclaimed speakers, we invite all community and university members to join us in observing and recognizing Dr. King's commitment to social justice and global peace.

Indiana University 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

In honor of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Indiana University will host the traditional MLK Leadership Breakfast on Monday, January 20, 2025, from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m., at the Indiana Memorial Union, Alumni Hall, Bloomington, Indiana. Enjoy a morning breakfast of fellowship with IU and community colleagues and friends before beginning a day of service. The program will include music, a special keynote address by Rev. Leah Gunning Francis, Ph.D., Indiana University Health senior vice president and chief mission and values officer, the presentation of IU’s Building Bridges Awards, and more.

Learn About the Keynote

Rev. Leah Gunning Francis, Ph.D.

The Building Bridges Award

Students, faculty, staff, alums, and community partners across Indiana are invited to submit nominations for the 2026 Building Bridges Award, which recognizes an individual or group who capture Dr. King’s vision, spirit, and leadership in ways both big and small – right here at IU and within communities across Indiana. One student and one additional community member from each IU campus and the IU School of Medicine will be recognized with the Building Bridges Award during Indiana University's Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in January.

Learn More and Nominate Someone Today

Promote Your MLK Jr. Celebration Events

Whether you are in a residence hall or student group hosting a movie night, a campus or department presenting a guest lecture, or a community member hosting service projects, we want to know about it! All events related to the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration are welcome and promoted via the MLK calendar and a bi-weekly university-wide newsletter.

Tell Us About Your Events

Virtual Tool Kit

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr., a toolkit is available to supplement a virtual, day-on experience helping community members educate, learn, and grow.

Learn More About the Toolkit