Annual Commemoration Event
Still We Reach: Building the Legacy
Saturday, April 4, 2026
The Kennedy King Memorial Initiative welcomed the community for a day of reflection, education, and engagement, honoring the legacies of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Senator Robert F. Kennedy. Visitors explored the Visitor’s Center exhibits, which highlighted the events of April 4 and Indianapolis’ role in the civil rights movement, while also experiencing newly expanded outdoor exhibits unveiled following significant park and exhibit enhancements.
Throughout the afternoon, community members of all ages participated in a collaborative art installation led by artists from the Indianapolis Art Center, contributing to a permanent piece that commemorates the reopening of Dr. Martin Luther King Park. Attendees also had the opportunity to join a meaningful conversation on the role of youth as community change makers, discussing how young people have historically advanced awareness and inspired positive social change.
The day concluded with the 58th Annual Commemorative Ceremony, where community members gathered to honor Dr. King and Senator Kennedy through special presentations, community awards, prayers, and remarks from local leaders. The program featured videos of Dr. King’s “Mountaintop” speech and Senator Kennedy’s historic Indianapolis address delivered following the news of King’s assassination—an address remembered for its message of compassion, unity, and peace during a time of national grief.
Thanks to the support of generous sponsors, all events were offered free of charge and were open to the public.
Check out this recap article from the Indianapolis Foundation! On These Grounds, A Legacy Endures.
Still We Reach: Breaking Ground for the Greater Good
Friday, April 4, 2025
The Kennedy King Memorial Initiative hosted the 57th annual April 4 Commemorative Event, "Still We Reach: Breaking Ground for the Greater Good," which took place at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park on Thursday, April 4, 2025.
The Commemoration was sponsored by Ball State University, Black Onyx Management, Browning Family Foundation, The City of Indianapolis, Comcast, Health and Hospital Corporation, Indiana Black Legislative Caucus, Indy Parks and Recreation, Shrewsberry & Associates, Market Street Group, Inc., and Pacers Sports and Entertainment.
2024 Commemoration
The Kennedy King Memorial Initiative hosted the 56th annual April 4 Commemorative Event, "Still We Reach: Together We Can," which took place near the iconic Landmark for Peace sculpture in MLK Park on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Attendees were able to visit the Cultural Visitors' Center which featured an array of historical artifacts, educational multimedia, and engaging interactive exhibits that illustrate the stories and influence of these pivotal figures in American history and emphasizes the ongoing quest for racial justice throughout Indianapolis.
This year's event theme, "Still We Reach: Together We Can," reflected our collective journey towards creating a society where love overcomes hate, understanding transcends prejudice, and unity triumphs over division.