Community leaders, activists, and residents gathered Jan. 17 at the Center at District 56 in Elk Grove for the city’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast. The event focused on reflection, unity, and action.

The breakfast was organized by the National Action Network (NAN) in partnership with the City of Elk Grove. NAN is a national civil rights organization founded by Rev. Al Sharpton that advances social justice through advocacy, public education, and community engagement locally and nationally.

Rev. Dr. Tecoy Porter, NAN’s president and executive director, emphasized the need to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and our own role in continuing the work.

Rev. Dr. Tecoy Porter, president and executive director of the National Action Network, speaks at the Center at District 56 in Elk Grove for the city’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast on Jan. 17. Russell Stiger Jr., OBSERVER.
Rev. Dr. Tecoy Porter, president and executive director of the National Action Network, speaks at the Center at District 56 in Elk Grove for the city’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast on Jan. 17. Russell Stiger Jr., OBSERVER.

“Today we gather in the spirit of reflection and action to honor the life, legacy, and enduring impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” Porter said.

This year’s theme, “Forward Together: Strengthening Communities, Shaping Tomorrow,” urged attendees to unite in collective action and shared responsibility, both essential to advancing Dr. King’s mission.

“As we recognize our 2026 community honorees and engage with the voices and stories shared throughout this program, may we be reminded that the work of justice is ongoing, and that each of us has a role to play,” he said.

Elk Grove City Councilmember Rod Brewer, who represents District 2, echoed those sentiments and highlighted the intentional effort required to create meaningful change.

“Dr. King’s vision reminds us that progress is not accidental,” Brewer said. “It is achieved through intentional action, shared responsibility, and a steadfast commitment to justice and equality.”

He described the annual breakfast as a time to recommit to building stronger, more inclusive communities across the city.

California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley N. Weber also addressed attendees, connecting Dr. King’s legacy to civic engagement and voting rights.

Fortune School Marching Band performs at Elk Grove’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast. Russell Stiger Jr., OBSERVER
Fortune School Marching Band performs at Elk Grove’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast. Russell Stiger Jr., OBSERVER

“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy continues to call us to act with purpose and integrity,” Weber said. “His life’s work reminds us that meaningful progress comes through service, courage, and a shared responsibility to one another.”

Weber emphasized California’s role in protecting democracy.

“In California, we honor that legacy by investing in our communities, protecting access to the ballot, and ensuring that every voice is heard,” she said. “This work requires consistency and care, especially at moments when progress feels difficult or uncertain.”

Rev. Dr. Joy Johnson delivered the keynote address and urged attendees to stay committed to justice-driven leadership and community empowerment.

A program highlight was the Drum Major Awards, inspired by Dr. King’s 1968 sermon. They recognize individuals whose leadership shows service, humility, and commitment to community.

The breakfast ended with a call to action that affirmed Dr. King’s belief in change through service, unity, and engagement.

This year’s Drum Major honorees included:

  • Drum Major for Peace: Rev. Dr. Efrem Smith
  • Drum Major for Justice: Volma Volcy
  • Drum Major for Righteousness: Derrell and Tina Roberts
  • Drum Major for Economic Empowerment: Dr. Melanie Harrison Okoro
  • Drum Major for Excellence in Entrepreneurship: Sharie Wilson
  • NextGen Drum Majors: Princeton Mingo and Marho Akpo