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MLK Day Events Across the U.S. Blend Service With Protest Over Federal Policies

The holiday drew fresh focus after the National Park Service removed fee-free access for the day, prompting California to open more than 200 state parks at no cost.

Overview

  • Cities marked the federal holiday with parades, peace walks, museum programs and large-scale volunteer drives as part of the national day of service.
  • Bernice King and other speakers condemned the Trump administration’s stepped-up immigration enforcement and attempts to curtail diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.
  • New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced rules that bar ICE from entering churches, hospitals, schools and day care centers without a warrant signed by a judge.
  • Los Angeles hosted a rebranded parade under Bakewell Media with Cedric The Entertainer as grand marshal, alongside a sold-out LA Works volunteer festival.
  • Local organizers emphasized ongoing action and youth engagement, with examples including San Diego’s parade featuring about 80 organizations and a 5K that drew nearly 1,000 runners.