Cleveland Public Library, in partnership with WOIO 19News, will recognize new and emerging leaders in our city during the 38th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Celebration. There are three opportunities to watch:
| WHEN | CHANNEL | TIME |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, January 14 | WUAB CW43 | 7:00 p.m. |
| Monday, January 16 | WOIO 19News | 9:00 a.m. |
| Monday, January 16 | WUAB CW43 | 11:00 a.m. |
“This year’s honorees are young men and women making a difference in our community,” said Felton Thomas, Jr., Executive Director and CEO of Cleveland Public Library. “This program embodies the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and features Clevelanders who uplift their neighbors and communities through acts of kindness and civic engagement.”
“For the third year, WOIO is proud to partner with Cleveland Public Library on this important program in tribute to Dr. King’s legacy,” remarks Matt Moran, General Manager at WOIO and WUAB. “This program serves as a reminder that heroes walk among us and their road to leadership is unconventional.”
The theme for the MLK program is “Knowledge is Power.” It coincides with the Cleveland Reads citywide reading challenge. The goal is to collectively read one million books in 2023. All are welcome to sign up at clevelandreads.com; however, Cleveland residents are strongly encouraged to participate in Cleveland Reads.
“Literacy is the foundation to everything that we do,” adds Director Thomas. “This year’s honorees are making significant strides in education and boosting literacy levels in our city.”
Viewers will be inspired by Cleveland Public Library Drum Major for Change Award recipient, Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb; intrigued by a conversation with Cuyahoga Community College President Dr. Michael Baston, who is contributing to Dr. King’s legacy by ensuring that education is accessible to every citizen; moved by the stories of the young Unsung Heroes who are overcoming some of life’s biggest challenges to build a bright future for themselves and younger generations; energized by St. Edward High School students living the heart of the mission of Dr. King through the school’s Diversity and Inclusion program; and motivated by Cleveland Public Library programs to put opportunity in everyone’s reach.
Program highlights include Cleveland Metropolitan School District students sharing their dreams and thoughts on Dr. King’s legacy, a special message from the Cleveland Public Library Board of Trustees, and performances by the Antioch Baptist Church Mass Choir and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter.
“We hope this celebration inspires people to honor Dr. King in their everyday lives,” remarks Director Thomas.