TOP MLK DAY SPEAKERS

Speakers.com proudly highlights our inspiring lineup of MLK Day speakers, who embody the legacy, leadership, and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a powerful opportunity to reflect on the enduring impact of his work and the continued pursuit of equality, service, and justice. Our dynamic speakers bring Dr. King’s message to life, motivating audiences to take meaningful action in their communities and organizations. Contact Speakers.com today to secure the perfect keynote speaker—virtual or live—for your next MLK Day event.

Dr. Bernice A. King

Daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Dr. Bernice A. King is a distinguished lawyer, minister, and author. She leads the King Center, advancing her father’s legacy of nonviolent social change. A powerful orator, she inspires global audiences on justice, leadership, and equality. Her work empowers communities to build peace and equity. King delivers transformative messages on hope and collective action.

Martin Luther King III

Martin Luther King III is a prominent civil rights activist and global humanitarian. As the eldest son of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., he co-founded the Realizing the Dream initiative. He dedicates his life to promoting nonviolence, human rights, and economic empowerment worldwide. King III speaks on unity and global reconciliation. His vision unites diverse audiences for positive change.

Desmond Clark

Desmond Clark is an entrepreneur, speaker, philanthropist, and former All-Pro Tight End for the Chicago Bears. He leverages his NFL success to motivate others through keynote speeches on resilience and leadership. Clark runs a foundation supporting underserved youth in education and athletics. His story inspires overcoming adversity. Clark’s energy electrifies corporate and youth audiences alike.

Angela Davis

Angela Davis is a legendary social justice and civil rights counterculture icon. A philosopher, academic, and activist, she has authored influential works on feminism, prison abolition, and racial equity. Her fearless advocacy shapes movements for liberation and systemic change. Davis challenges audiences to envision a just world. Her intellectual rigor provokes profound reflection.

Risha Grant

Risha Grant is a renowned diversity & inclusion expert and bestselling author. She delivers transformative keynotes on creating inclusive cultures and bridging divides. Her practical strategies empower organizations to foster equity, innovation, and belonging. Grant’s insights drive measurable cultural change. She equips leaders with actionable tools for lasting impact.

Hill Harper

Hill Harper is an award-winning TV & film actor, New York Times bestselling author, and advocate for youth and education. Known for roles in CSI: NY and The Good Doctor, he champions literacy and mentorship. Harper inspires audiences to pursue purpose-driven lives. His messages focus on personal growth and community impact. Harper connects celebrity with authentic service.

Judge Victoria Pratt

Judge Victoria Pratt is a judge, lawyer, professor, and leading criminal justice reform advocate. She pioneered humane courtroom practices in Newark, NJ, emphasizing respect and rehabilitation. Her TED Talk and book, The Power of Mercy, influence global justice systems. Pratt promotes dignity in the legal process. Her reforms reduce recidivism and restore trust.

Dorothy Gilliam

Dorothy Gilliam is the first African-American female journalist at The Washington Post and a bestselling author. A trailblazing reporter, she covered civil rights and urban issues with unmatched impact. Her memoir chronicles decades of breaking barriers in media. Gilliam mentors the next generation of journalists. Her legacy shapes journalism’s future.

Winston Scott

Winston Scott is a former NASA astronaut who flew on Space Shuttle Discovery STS-72. A mission specialist, he conducted critical spacewalk and satellite operations. Scott now speaks on leadership, teamwork, and pushing human limits. His experiences highlight innovation and exploration. Scott’s space perspective redefines possibility.

Bakari Sellers

Bakari Sellers is a CNN political analyst, lawyer, activist, and former South Carolina state representative. At 26, he became the youngest elected official in his state’s history. He offers sharp insights on politics, race, and progressive policy. Sellers bridges divides through engaging dialogue. His youthful energy captivates modern audiences.

Dr. Carol Swain

Dr. Carol Swain is a civil rights commentator, public speaker, entrepreneur, and bestselling author. A Vanderbilt University professor emerita, she addresses faith, race, and constitutional issues. Her bold perspectives challenge audiences to confront cultural divides. Swain fosters thoughtful national conversations. Her scholarship informs policy debates.

Cornel West

Cornel West is a renowned public intellectual, professor, and author of groundbreaking books like Race Matters and Democracy Matters. A philosopher and activist, he critiques power structures with prophetic urgency. West captivates with his eloquence on justice, love, and democracy. His voice ignites social transformation. West’s passion moves crowds to action.

Juliette Mayers

Juliette Mayers is a speaker, author, diversity & inclusion consultant, and founder & CEO of Inspiration Zone LLC. She guides leaders in building equitable workplaces through engaging workshops. Mayers draws from her expertise to spark innovation and cultural transformation. Her approach yields inclusive results. Mayers creates sustainable diversity momentum.

Kim Blue

Kim Blue is Chief People Officer at OpenExchange, former Global Head of People Experience Partners at Zoom, and Senior HR Manager at Microsoft. A trailblazing HR executive, she scales people strategies for tech giants. Blue speaks on talent development, hybrid work, and inclusive leadership. Her expertise drives organizational success. Blue future-proofs HR practices.

What Is MLK Day?

Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK Day) is a federal holiday in the United States observed on the third Monday of January each year. It honors the life, legacy, and enduring impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a central leader of the American civil rights movement who championed nonviolent activism, racial equality, social justice, and economic opportunity. MLK Day is both a day of remembrance and a call to action, encouraging individuals, organizations, and communities to reflect on Dr. King’s values and recommit to building more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate workplaces and societies. Many organizations also recognize the day through service projects, educational programming, and keynote presentations.

What Is the History of MLK Day?

The effort to establish Martin Luther King Jr. Day began shortly after Dr. King’s assassination in 1968, led by civil rights activists, labor unions, and members of Congress who sought to formally honor his legacy. After years of advocacy, MLK Day was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983 and first observed as a federal holiday in 1986. Some states were slow to adopt the holiday, but by the year 2000, all 50 states officially recognized it. Today, MLK Day is also known as a “Day of Service,” reflecting Dr. King’s belief that meaningful change comes through collective action and civic engagement.

Why Book a Top MLK Day Speaker?

Booking a top MLK Day speaker brings Dr. King’s message to life in a powerful, relevant, and impactful way for modern audiences. Experienced MLK Day keynote speakers connect historical lessons to today’s challenges, addressing themes such as leadership, diversity and inclusion, social responsibility, resilience, and ethical decision-making. A compelling speaker can inspire meaningful dialogue, align employees around shared values, and help organizations move beyond symbolism toward actionable change. Whether for corporate events, educational institutions, or community gatherings, a high-caliber MLK Day speaker ensures the observance is thoughtful, engaging, and aligned with Dr. King’s enduring vision.

These are just a few of the top Black History Month Speakers and MLK Day Speakers available at Speakers.com

Contact (410) 897-1970, Email service@speakers.com
or Tell Us About Your Meeting