44th Annual MLK Day of Celebration at the Madam Walker Legacy Center

Experience the power of unity, reflection, and celebration at the Madam Walker Legacy Center’s 44th Annual Day of Celebration, presented by the Indianapolis Foundation, honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.!

Join us on Monday, January 19 at 7:00 p.m. EST in the historic and iconic Walker Theatre. Early arrival is highly recommended — seating is first come, first served and not guaranteed.

We are honored to welcome Bakari Sellers as this year’s distinguished speaker.
A two-time New York Times bestselling author, civil rights activist, attorney, entrepreneur, legislator, and one of today’s most powerful cultural voices, Bakari continues to build upon the extraordinary legacy of his parents, Gwendolyn Sellers and civil rights leader Cleveland Sellers. While his father helped shape historic movements alongside Stokely Carmichael, Bayard Rustin, and Malcolm X, Bakari has carved his own path—shaping modern movements with leaders such as Rep. James Clyburn, Attorney Benjamin Crump, and President Barack Obama.

Bakari’s journey began early. He entered Morehouse College at age 16, later graduating from the University of South Carolina School of Law. At just 22 years old, he became the youngest legislator in the South Carolina state legislature. Grounded in the values of his hometown in Denmark, SC, Bakari pairs gravitas with humility, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

He is the author of My Vanishing Country, the children’s book Who Are Your People?, and most recently, The Moment (2024), a powerful expansion of the issues impacting Black communities across the nation. A respected CNN political analyst, Bakari is known for elevating public discourse and offering thoughtful, solution-driven commentary. His popular show, The Bakari Sellers Podcast, airs twice weekly on The Ringer Podcast Network. Since 2007, Bakari has also served with the Strom Law Firm, where he leads the Strategic Communication & Public Affairs team and the DEI Consulting practice.

Bakari is married to Dr. Ellen Rucker-Sellers, and together they are the proud parents of three children.

Let 's come together in the spirit of Dr. King — honoring his legacy, celebrating our progress, and renewing our commitment to the work ahead.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Madam Walker Legacy Center