In the heart of Huber Heights, city leaders gathered under the warm glow of the community center to discuss plans for an upcoming event that promises to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The Culture and Diversity Citizen Action Commission met on October 2, 2025, to finalize details for the sixth annual MLK Community Day, set for January 19, 2026, coinciding with the national holiday.

The meeting buzzed with excitement as members outlined a new format for the event: a lunch and dialogue themed "Keeping the Dream Alive: Building a Unified Community, One Conversation at a Time." This initiative aims to foster meaningful discussions among residents about issues of inequality and disparities within the community. The commission emphasized the importance of having city council leaders present to hear firsthand from constituents about the challenges they face.

As the planning unfolded, the group discussed logistics, including catering options that support local minority-owned businesses. Among the contenders was Sam's, a local establishment, alongside Miss Ella Soul Food. The commission also expressed a desire to engage youth from Wayne High School and local middle and elementary schools, encouraging them to share their reflections on Dr. King's impact.

The dialogue will include small group discussions focused on pressing questions about justice and community action, allowing participants to voice their concerns and propose solutions. The commission highlighted Dr. King's historical ties to the Dayton area, noting his connections to local institutions like Antioch College, which could enrich the event's narrative.

In a poignant moment, members reflected on the legacy of Lucille Dale, Huber Heights' first African American female vice mayor, who initiated similar community events in the past. Her contributions serve as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and the importance of community engagement.

As the meeting concluded, the commission members left with a renewed sense of purpose, eager to create an event that not only honors Dr. King's legacy but also strengthens the bonds within their community. The upcoming MLK Community Day promises to be a significant step toward fostering dialogue and unity in Huber Heights, echoing the ideals that Dr. King championed throughout his life.