United in Growth, Rooted in Community

Honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy by fighting against injustice through learning, reading, and connecting. Your voice and actions matter.

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This program is presented in partnership with the Teen Advisory Board and funded by the Milwaukee Public Library Foundation

 

15,000 people in the biggest civil rights demonstration to that date fill Wisconsin Ave on April 8, 1968. The march was in memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Photo courtesy of Milwaukee Journal

Programming

The Martin Luther King Branch is open 9 am to 5 pm on Monday, January 16 in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Join us for entertainment and activities that highlight how our deep roots in community continue to hold us together today.  

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9:00 am - 11:30 am  

Communi-Tree 
Collaborate to create a community tree mural that celebrates our roots, dreams, and  aspirations for the future. Presented by MPL Teen Advisory Board. 

Magna Tiles 
Dream big and build even bigger with Magna Tiles.

Button Making 
Create your own special King Day pins. 

Life-Sized Chess 
Learn all about the facts of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as well as the King of all board games, chess. 

Reflections 
Listen to Dr. King’s words and soulful instrumentals while writing or drawing your reflections, thoughts and hopes for the new year in a journal. Enjoy coffee or tea while supplies last. 

Fresh Vote 
We challenge 50 Milwaukee residents ages 18-50 to 
register or update their voter registration in time for the spring elections.  

9:30 am - 11:30 am

Community Art Project with Vibez Creative Arts Spaces
Participate in an arts and crafts project exemplifying peace, unity, and fellowship. 

Live Performances

12:00 pm    "Lift Every Voice and Sing"

12:05 pm    Greeting from City Librarian Joan Johnson,  
County Executive David Crowley, Mayor Cavalier Johnson and Ald. Milele Coggs.

12:20 pm    Chamber Choir  
Hear the melodic sounds from HOPE Fortis South 
Middle School students. 

12:30 pm    Xalaat Africa Youth Ensemble  
Be immersed in the sights and sounds of West African dance and music.

1:00 pm    Alpha Phi Alpha Trivia Contest  
Learn facts about the civil rights movement and earn prizes. 

1:35 pm    Signature Dance Company 
Marvel at modern dance piece from performance company levels 1, 2 and Junior Company.

2:00 pm    Mario the Poet 
Be inspired by spoken word presented by Milwaukee’s Poet Laureate.

2:30 pm    A TRUE Skool Experience 
Enjoy a collaborative performance showcasing the elements of Hip Hop in celebration of Dr. King.

3:00 pm    Anthony McGahee and Praise Motivated
Be inspired by spoken word presented by Milwaukee’s Poet Laureate.

3:30 pm    Birthday Cake and Juice
Enjoy treats in the Community Room while supplies last. 

A large group of people are kneeling in prayer on Wisconsin Ave on the anniversary of the death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Photo courtesy of Milwaukee Journal

Next: MLK Day Activities

MLK Day Activities

 

A group of people protest on the sidewalks in front of the Eagles Club. The members only club was a frequent target of protesters, due to its "whites only" policy. Photo courtesy of Milwaukee Journal

Next: MLK Day Resources

MLK Day Resources

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A group of people protest on the sidewalks in front of the Eagles Club. The members only club was a frequent target of protesters, due to its "whites only" policy. Photo courtesy of Milwaukee Journal