SEASIDE >> The Monterey County Black Caucus together with the city of Seaside will host a Martin Luther King Jr. Day event to celebrate the birth and legacy of the iconic civil rights leader with “a powerful day of unity, reflection, and action.”

The theme for the 2025 MLK Day march and event on Jan. 20 is “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365.”

“We encourage everyone to join us for this meaningful event, whether as parade participants or attendees,” said Tinisha Dunn-Alcantara, Monterey County Black Caucus spokesperson.

Event organizers ask those wishing to participate in the parade meet at the corner of Obama Way and Noche Buena Street in Seaside at 11 a.m.

“March with us as a community to the Oldemeyer Center” at 986 Hilby Ave., starting at noon and proceeding to the destination where a “robust program” to honor King’s mission of freedom, justice and nonviolence is planned from 1-3 p.m.

Highlights of the program include a keynote speech by Pastor M.L. Carter of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Seaside, reflecting on this year’s theme, a panel discussion with diverse local speakers exploring how King’s mission continues to resonate today, and performances, singers, dancers, and reflections from community members and youth.

“Beyond remembering Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy, the parade, and program aim to inspire and activate our community to protect freedom, justice, and democracy,” said Dunn-Alcantara, in an email. “This year’s event encourages attendees to reflect on Dr. King’s principles and take actionable steps toward creating an equitable and inclusive society.”

According to The King Center in Atlanta, its definition of nonviolence is “a love-centered way of thinking, speaking, acting, and engaging that leads to personal, cultural and societal transformation.”

Nonviolence365 is a philosophy and framework developed by The King Center, based on King’s teachings, according to the Monterey County Black Caucus. It emphasizes the power of nonviolent action in addressing injustice and building a beloved community. This theme will be woven throughout the day’s events, encouraging participants to embody nonviolence in their daily lives while reflecting on its relevance in protecting democracy, justice and freedom.

This year’s theme — Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365 — is a call to action for all, says Dunn-Alcantra.

“The Monterey County Black Caucus also stands in unwavering solidarity with our immigrant community,” she said. “As Seaside proudly remains a sanctuary city, we affirm our commitment to protecting the rights, dignity, and humanity of all people, regardless of immigration status.”

King envisioned a world where justice, equality, and compassion transcended borders and barriers, says the Monterey County Black Caucus. The Monterey County Black Caucus invites groups, organizations, schools, or teams to participate in the parade wearing matching shirts, jackets, or gear.

“While it’s not mandatory, it adds a sense of fun, unity, and visual representation of the diverse community organizations that make Monterey County strong,” said Dunn-Alcantara.