Honoring Dr Martin Luther King Jr

Building Community the Nonviolent Way Right Here on Maui

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a Baptist minister, civil rights leader, and one of the most influential figures in American history. Born in 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia, Dr. King dedicated his life to advancing racial equality and social justice through nonviolent action. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, he believed that peaceful resistance and collective action were the most powerful tools for creating meaningful and lasting change.

From the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955 to the landmark campaigns in Birmingham and Selma, Dr. King’s leadership helped expose injustice and move the nation forward. His efforts were instrumental in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. That same year, he delivered his iconic I Have a Dream speech at the March on Washington, calling for a nation rooted in equality, dignity, and unity. These values continue to guide communities today.

Community, Place, and Belonging on Maui

On Maui, the idea of community is more than a concept. It is a way of life. The neighborhoods we live in, the land we steward, and the relationships we build all reflect shared responsibility and respect. These values align closely with Dr. King’s vision of communities coming together with compassion, courage, and a commitment to justice.

Real estate is not just about property. It is about people and place. Whether you are a longtime resident or considering making Maui home, the spirit of unity and aloha is woven into the fabric of our towns, from Wailuku to Upcountry, South Maui to the North Shore. Events that bring people together remind us why community centered living matters and why preserving that sense of belonging is so important.

A Community Celebration in Wailuku

Today, residents and visitors alike are invited to honor Dr. King’s life and legacy at a free community celebration from 9:00 a.m. to noon in front of the Kalana O Maui County Building in Wailuku. The event’s theme, “Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way,” speaks directly to the values that shape strong neighborhoods and resilient communities.

Program highlights include:

• An opening blessing at the Stone of Hope
• Remarks from Mayor Richard Bissen
• An I Have a Dream recitation by Bryant Neal
• Vocal performances by Sheryl Renee, Leiʻohu Ryder, Dayan Kai, Tanama Colibri, and DJ Zeke
• A special performance by the Voices of the Valley Gospel Choir, directed by Vania Jerome and Ashton Yarbrough

Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and stay awhile. This is another reminder that community is built when people gather, listen, and share space together.

Dr. King’s Legacy and the Future of Our Communities

Dr. King’s legacy challenges us to think about how we shape the places we live. On Maui, that means fostering inclusive neighborhoods, honoring cultural history, and ensuring that growth is guided by respect for people and land alike. When communities thrive, homes become more than structures. They become foundations for connection, opportunity, and shared purpose.

This celebration is presented by the King Center, Arts Education for Children Group, and Jazz Maui. It serves as a powerful reminder that the values Dr. King championed are still alive right here in our community.

As we honor his vision, we also reaffirm our commitment to building a Maui where unity, justice, and aloha continue to define the place we call home.

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