45 Years Marching for the Dream
Feb 11, 2026 09:39AM ● By MPG Staff
This year’s March for the Dream theme, “Walk and Talk,” encouraged participants to converse with someone from a different background, offering a simple yet meaningful way to foster understanding and honor Dr. King’s vision of unity. Photo by Geneva Jacob, Office of Mayor Kevin McCarty
SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The 45th annual March for the Dream, hosted by MLK365, brought thousands of community members together on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, Jan. 19, filling Sacramento streets with participants walking side by side in honor of Dr. King’s legacy of civil rights and action.
The day’s events began with “The Extra Mile” leadership march at the Oak Park Community Center at 8:30 a.m., leading into the larger March for the Dream at Sacramento City College. From there, the six-mile march set off with participants united in purpose and reflection.
Elected officials addressed the crowd before the march began, including Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty, who delivered opening remarks to those gathered early to take part of the event. U.S. Rep. Doris Matsui joined the march, along with Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen and West Sacramento Mayor Martha Guerrero.
“Now more than ever, we must stay unified as we continue the fight for justice,” McCarty shared in a post following the march. “Let’s honor Dr. King’s legacy by turning our values into action throughout the year.”
Several Sacramento City Council members were also present to show their support, including Eric Guerra, Rick Jennings and Caity Maple.
This year’s theme, “Walk and Talk,” encouraged participants to engage in conversation with someone from a different background, offering a simple but meaningful way to build understanding and reflect Dr. King’s vision of unity.
The march concluded at the Sacramento Convention Center, where a diversity expo was held, returning for the first time in eight years. The expo offered attendees access to community resources, including employment opportunities, health services and educational programs, along with food and live entertainment.
Learn more about MLK365 and its mission at mlk365.org.
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