Governor Hochul Announces New York State’s 2023 Tribute to the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Be Aired on New York PBS Stations

Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that the annual commemoration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be presented as a statewide broadcast event, “New York State Celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: Pathways to Change,” airing on PBS stations throughout New York beginning Sunday, January 15. The public can also attend a free tribute screening on Friday, Jan. 13, at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany or watch the program beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 16.

“Few individuals have raised the consciousness of our nation and the world as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has, both by his words and his deeds,” said Governor Hochul. “This year, New York presents a statewide broadcast that highlights the lasting legacy of Dr. King’s vision and the promise he instilled in us all.

“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. served as a pillar in our society and his legacy is cemented in our nation’s history. His heroic actions and powerful message have inspired many and will continue to serve as an inspiration for generations to come.” they will come,” said Vice Governor Antonio Delgado. “I am proud to join Governor Hochul in announcing New York’s statewide broadcast honoring the monumental man that was Dr. King.”

Coordinated annually by the state Office of General Services and representatives from other New York State agencies, the tribute to Dr. King showcases people and organizations from across New York State who embody the principles of one of America’s most important leaders for social justice, freedom, and equality. The airtime of the one-hour tribute will vary by region; viewers are encouraged to check their television listings or local PBS station for more details.

Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy said, “As New Yorkers come together to commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we must all recommit ourselves to his vision for a more united society. We must we look to him as a legacy as New York, and this nation continues our quest for equality and equity. I join Governor Hochul in urging New Yorkers to watch this program and rededicate themselves to keeping Dr. King’s dream alive.”

WMHT CEO Robert Altman said, “We are honored to once again join communities in New York State as we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dedication to justice, rights and freedoms for all. These stories and voices show that Dr. King’s vision for America remains vital today, and we are proud to share that message through public television.”

Hosted by Reverend Dr. Mashona Walston, a pastor, chaplain, speaker, veterans advocate and neurotheologian who serves as Senior Minister at First Church in Albany, this year’s program will take viewers on a virtual tour of New York State.

Through the eyes of New Yorkers from Buffalo to Brooklyn, Rochester to New Paltz, the program focuses on the life and dreams of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with music, art and inspiring stories that reflect the paths to change in New York State. Some of the highlights of the show include:

A special message for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. by Governor Hochul A feature on “The Road to Peace,” highlighting spiritual leaders Mahatma Gandhi and Malcolm X and their influence on Dr. King, including an original play performed by students of the SUNY Paltz New Arts Program and written by New Paltzgraduate Lester Mayers; songs from the Ensemble of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 2023; and a powerful presentation by spoken word artist Alonzo Verbal A profile of the Apollo Theater, also known as “The Soul of American Culture.” A look at SHRED, a snowboarding foundation that is nurturing young lives in the community, both on and off the mountain

Everyone is invited to tune in to learn more about the New Yorkers who live their lives in the image of Dr. King. The public is also invited to attend a special tribute screening on Friday, January 13, at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. The event is free, with doors opening at 6pm for refreshments and the show starting promptly at 7pm.

In addition to attending or viewing the tribute, New Yorkers are invited to view the Dr. New York State Virtual Gallery of Art and Essays. Martin Luther King, Jr. Wednesday, January 11 to Tuesday, February 28. The exhibit features submissions by students in kindergarten through 12th grade that were inspired by Dr. King.

As in past years, New York State is hosting several service-related programs to fulfill Dr. King for the community, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Nationwide Food, which ends Friday, February 10, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Statewide Book Drive, which runs from Monday, February 20 to Friday, April 21. Please visit empirestateplaza.ny.gov/nyking and follow @NYSMLK on Facebook and Twitter for PBS member station program updates and additional information about New York’s celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. King.