Annually, The King Center in Atlanta leads the nationwide observance of the national holiday commemorating the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. One of the marquee programs of The King Center’s holiday experiences is the MLK, Jr. Beloved Community Awards. The MLK, Jr. Beloved Community Awards recognize national and international individuals and organizations that exemplify excellence in leadership, pursue social justice, and are helping to create the Beloved Community, as envisioned by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

EVENT DETAILS

PRE-RECEPTION: 5:00 P.M. – 7 PMEST

AWARDS SHOW: 7:30 P.M. EST

The Beloved Community Awards will commence at 5:00 PM with a pre-reception featuring entertainment and a selection of heavy hors d’oeuvres.  Please note that this year’s event will not include a seated dinner. Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served exclusively during the pre-reception.

ATTIRE:  Formal

2026 Honoree Information: 

We are in the process of confirming a few additional distinguished guests. This year’s confirmed award recipients include:

• Beloved Community Youth Influencer Award (Corp.):  LeBron James Family Foundation (LJFF) – accepted by Gloria James, Mother of LeBron James

• Beloved Community Environmental Justice Award:  Billie Eilish – Artist/Songwriter

• Beloved Community Salute to Greatness Humanitarian Award:  Robert Smith – Founder, Chairman and CEO, Vista Equity Partners

• Beloved Community Coretta Scott King Woman Soul of the Nation Award:  Viola Davis – Actor, Producer

•  Beloved Community Youth Influencer Award (Indiv.): Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman –Founder & CEO, The Dorothyjeanius STEAM Leadership Institute 

• Beloved Community Civic Leadership Award: Dr. DuShun Scarbrough Sr. – Executive Director of The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission

• Beloved Community Salute to Greatness Corporate Social Responsibility Award: Cisco Systems, Inc. 

• Beloved Community Christine King Farris Legacy of Service in Education Award:  Sesame Workshop

• Beloved Community Social Justice Award – Mónica Ramírez –  Founder and President of Justice for Migrant Women

• Beloved Community Technological Innovation Award- Cody Soodeen, CEO and Founder of Kara Water