The Rainbow PUSH organization will host the Let Freedom Ring celebration, a free public event that commemorates the anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birth. The function takes place at the Fox Theatre on Monday, January 20, 2025 at 4 p.m. and highlights six individuals who exude the spirit of Dr. King.

"We look forward to honoring these extraordinary leaders who have embodied Dr. King’s commitment to social justice by giving selflessly of themselves, their resources, and their ingenuity,” Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. said, founder and president emeritus of Rainbow PUSH Coalition. “The collective action of these individuals has strengthened humanity, and their work continues to personify the legacy of Dr. King in a way that empowers upward mobility through fairness and equity. We are pleased to shine more light on their efforts.”

The evening’s six honorees will receive recognition in one of four categories: the Humanitarian Award will be presented to Detroit Tiger legend Willie Horton and (posthumously) Esther Gordy Edwards of the Motown Historical Museum; the Social Justice Award to Minister Malik Shabazz and (posthumously) Viola Liuzzo for paying the ultimate sacrifice during the Civil Rights Movement; the Social Service Award to Eva Garza Dawaelsche of SER Metro Detroit; and the Keep Hope Alive Award to Pastor Solomon Kinloch Jr. The Martin Luther King High School Dance Workshop will also perform routines that speak through the language of artistic movement and grace.

Previous Let Freedom Ring award recipients have included Nobel Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Wayne County Community College District Chancellor Dr. Curtis L. Ivery, "Queen of Soul" Aretha Franklin, Congressman John Conyers, Detroit News Publisher Jonathan Wolman, R&B singer KEM, former University of Michigan football player and current NFL player Blake Corum, and others.