Wilmington, NC, December 31, 2025
The Southeastern North Carolina Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee has named Tamera Young as the Grand Marshal for the upcoming MLK Jr. Parade in Wilmington NC. The parade, scheduled for January 19, includes various events designed to honor Dr. King’s legacy, such as community discussions, a family fun day, and an ecumenical service leading up to the parade. This celebration highlights the importance of community service and social responsibility in honoring Dr. King’s ideals.
Wilmington, NC Celebrates MLK Jr. Legacy with Upcoming Parade
Tamera Young Named Grand Marshal of the 2026 SENC MLK Jr. Parade
The Southeastern North Carolina Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee has selected Tamera “Ty” Young as the Grand Marshal for the upcoming 2026 SENC MLK Jr. Parade. Young, a Wilmington native, boasts a remarkable career as a retired professional basketball player and former assistant coach in the WNBA. Her journey began at Laney High School and continued through James Madison University, leading to her selection in the 2008 WNBA Draft. Young has played for the Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky, and Las Vegas Aces during her professional career and has made meaningful contributions to basketball as an assistant coach with the Chicago Sky after her playing days.
Overview of the 2026 SENC MLK Jr. Parade and Celebration Events
Scheduled for Monday, January 19, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., the SENC MLK Jr. Parade will take place in downtown Wilmington, starting at 3rd Street and winding through the heart of the city. This joyous occasion will be enhanced with a series of events designed to honor Dr. King’s profound legacy. The community can participate in various activities leading up to the parade:
- Monday, January 12 – SENC MLK Jr. Committee Press Conference
10:00 A.M. at the Martin Luther King Center, 401 South 8th Street, Wilmington, NC - Thursday, January 15 – Conversations for Peace
6:00 P.M. at the Martin Luther King Center, 401 South 8th Street, Wilmington, NC - Friday, January 16 – SENC Martin Luther King Jr. Pageant
6:00 P.M. at the Martin Luther King Center, 401 South 8th Street, Wilmington, NC - Saturday, January 17 – Martin Luther King Jr. Family Fun Day
11:00 A.M. at the Martin Luther King Center, 401 South 8th Street, Wilmington, NC - Sunday, January 18 – MLK Jr. Ecumenical Service
11:00 A.M. at Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, 2929 Princess Place Drive, Wilmington, NC - Monday, January 19 – SENC MLK Jr. Day Parade
11:00 A.M. starting at 3rd Street in downtown Wilmington, NC - Saturday, January 24 – NAACP Breakfast
10:00 A.M. at The Wilmington Convention Center, 10 Convention Center Dr., Wilmington, NC
To stay updated on volunteer opportunities, registration details, and further announcements, community members can access the official website or contact the committee directly.
Understanding Dr. King’s Legacy in Wilmington
Wilmington holds a unique place in the narrative of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. Notably, King had planned a visit to Wilmington, but chose to delay it in order to support striking sanitation workers in Memphis, Tennessee—a decision that ultimately led to his tragic assassination. This connection reminds residents of the ongoing importance of community service and social responsibility.
About the Committee’s Mission
Founded to fill a historical gap in community engagement, the Southeastern North Carolina Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee is dedicated to fostering improved racial relations, enhancing community connections, and raising awareness of the significant contributions made by African Americans throughout history.
Key Features of the 2026 SENC MLK Jr. Parade and Celebration
| Date | Event | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 19, 2026 | SENC MLK Jr. Parade | 11:00 A.M. | Downtown Wilmington, NC |
| January 12, 2026 | SENC MLK Jr. Committee Press Conference | 10:00 A.M. | Martin Luther King Center, 401 South 8th Street, Wilmington, NC |
| January 15, 2026 | Conversations for Peace | 6:00 P.M. | Martin Luther King Center, 401 South 8th Street, Wilmington, NC |
| January 16, 2026 | SENC Martin Luther King Jr. Pageant | 6:00 P.M. | Martin Luther King Center, 401 South 8th Street, Wilmington, NC |
| January 17, 2026 | Martin Luther King Jr. Family Fun Day | 11:00 A.M. | Martin Luther King Center, 401 South 8th Street, Wilmington, NC |
| January 18, 2026 | MLK Jr. Ecumenical Service | 11:00 A.M. | Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, 2929 Princess Place Drive, Wilmington, NC |
| January 24, 2026 | NAACP Breakfast | 10:00 A.M. | The Wilmington Convention Center, 10 Convention Center Dr., Wilmington, NC |
As Wilmington gears up for the SENC MLK Jr. Parade, community members are encouraged to participate and support the events aimed at reflecting on Dr. King’s legacy. The local focus on celebrating individual achievement and civic responsibility highlights the benefits of vibrant community engagement.
FAQ
Who is Tamera “Ty” Young?
Tamera “Ty” Young is a retired professional basketball player and former assistant coach in the WNBA. She had an outstanding career at Laney High School and James Madison University, leading to her selection in the 2008 WNBA Draft. Throughout her professional career, she played for the Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky, and Las Vegas Aces. After retiring as a player, Young returned to the Chicago Sky as an assistant coach, continuing to influence basketball culture both on and off the court.
When is the 2026 SENC MLK Jr. Parade?
The 2026 SENC MLK Jr. Parade is scheduled for Monday, January 19, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. in downtown Wilmington, NC. The parade will begin at 3rd Street and proceed through the city.
How can I participate in the 2026 SENC MLK Jr. Parade?
For updates, volunteer information, and registration details, visit the official website at www.mlkjrcelebration.com, email [email protected], or call (910) 408-2511.
What is the significance of Wilmington in Dr. King’s legacy?
Wilmington holds special significance in commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. A lesser-known historical fact is that Dr. King was scheduled to visit Wilmington but postponed his arrival to support striking sanitation workers in Memphis, Tennessee, where he was later assassinated.
What is the mission of the Southeastern North Carolina Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee?
The Southeastern North Carolina Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee was founded to fill a longstanding void in the community. The Committee is committed to improving racial relations, strengthening community connections, and increasing awareness of the positive achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history.
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