New York State Celebrates the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

January 17, 2025, 5:30 p.m.
Empire State Plaza Convention Center
Free and Open to the Public – All Are Welcome

Free Parking in the V-Lot Starting at 4:00 p.m.
Please bring a donation for the MLK Food Drive or Book Drive
Light Refreshments will be served 

Join us to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., This event honors Dr. King by celebrating the people and organizations in New York State that embody the principles of one of America’s greatest leaders for social justice, freedom, and equality for all.

Hosted by Albany Black Chamber of Commerce CEO Deshanna Wiggins and featuring:

• The premiere of the 2025 film tribute "We Press On: New York State Celebrates the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." Meet and learn about the inspiring work of movers and shakers including including author Jonathan Eig, chef and food historian Von Diaz, Hamilton Hill Art Center’s Miki Conn and Rachel Conn, SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr., the Every Voice Choirs, SUNY Black Leadership Institute and Vogue Buffalo.
• Special guests New York State Secretary of State Walter Mosely and Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy.
• Performances by the Hamilton Hill Drum Circle and Lansingburgh Choir.

Pre-registering for this event is strongly suggested, as seating is limited. To ensure your attendance, please complete the following form.  

RSVP to Attend

Hailing from Albany, NY, Deshanna C. Wiggins takes pride in her roots as an alumna of the Albany City School District and Clark Atlanta University. Fueled by a deep-seated passion for service, Deshanna is dedicated to making a positive impact on lives and championing equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Following the successful establishment of two companies, namely The Warginson Group—an interior design company—and CommonWealth Solutions—a boutique consulting firm focused on promoting equity, social development, and human rights, Deshanna is thrilled to return to her hometown.

As the newly appointed CEO of the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce & Social Club, she aims to empower minority business executives and owners, propelling Albany and the Capital Region towards continuous advancement.

Visit the Dr. King website for more information on the Memorial Observance and the Dr. King Community Initiatives:

• Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Observance
• Dr. King Statewide Food Drive
• Dr. King Volunteer Fair
• Dr. King Statewide Book Drive
• 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Art & Essay Exhibit