The City of Lee’s Summit will honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at a free community-wide event Jan. 21 at 6 p.m. in The Pavilion at John Knox Village, 520 NW Murray Rd.

The City’s Human Relations Commission organizes the event, which is now in its 22nd year. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Dream. Believe. Do.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was steadfast in his pursuit of civil rights, ultimately giving his life for the dream of equality.

“To believe in the possibility of your dream with such determination, that you have no choice but to do everything you can to make it happen, that’s the legacy of MLK that continues to inspire generation after generation,” said Pastor Dale Beasley, chair of the Human Relations Commission.

Ahead of the program, there will be a preshow at 5 p.m. where attendees will have the opportunity to visit various booths featuring community resources and enjoy refreshments.

Lee’s Summit Mayor Bill Baird will be the keynote speaker. Baird was elected the City’s 42nd mayor in April 2018. He has been an active member of the community for 21 years, serving on various boards and contributing through volunteer and community service work.

Attendees will also enjoy musical performances by the Lee’s Summit High School Jazz Band, Lee’s Summit North Crimson Camerata, Cedar Creek Elementary Choir and MLK Community Mass Choir. The first 300 people to arrive will receive a free T-shirt commemorating the event.

The City of Lee’s Summit’s celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is free to attend and open to the public.