January 20, 2025, Wisconsin celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Listen to the recorded broadcast of Wisconsin’s 45th Annual Tribute and Ceremony from the Capitol Rotunda, produced, directed, and hosted by Dr. Jonathan Øverby, executive producer and host of WPR’s Saturday evening world music program “The Road to Higher Ground with Jonathan Øverby.”
The Annual Tribute and Ceremony is Wisconsin’s official state Ceremony and is the oldest official MLK state celebration in the U.S. The theme of this year’s Tribute is “Justice Lives Here.” Marcelia N. Nicholson, the Chair of the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, gave the keynote address. Music and dance from the Gospel Music According to Chicago Mass Choir, violinist Dr. Brianna Ware-Boggs, and the MLK Multi-Cultural Dance Collective also performed. The event included presentations of MLK Heritage Awards.
“Justice Lives Here” honors the impact of leaders and ordinary citizens in their communities, living the spirit of Dr. King’s belief in the power of equality, according to Øverby. “We will celebrate Dr. King’s birthday and reflect on the ongoing work in communities large and small to pursue Dr. King’s dream,” said Dr. Øverby. “Dr. King’s legacy of service, his vision of equal rights for Black Americans, and his deep belief that we will get to the promised land of equality continues to inspire people here at home and around the world.”
“We are proud to help Wisconsin honor and learn from the work of Dr. King,” WPR Director Sarah Ashworth said. “This annual tribute and ceremony is a chance for Wisconsinites to remember and reconnect with his legacy.”
