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Tamara D. Grigsby
Civil Rights Department

City-County Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award

Black and White photo of Martin Luther King Jr.

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Award is presented annually to the person or persons who have demonstrated leadership and volunteerism while making significant contributions in the areas of:  promoting peace, understanding, and improving communication & cooperation between diverse populations in Dane County.  Nominate a youth, emerging leader, and/or adult or group of people who have made outstanding and significant contributions in the spirit of sisterhood, brotherhood, and harmony toward making our community an ideal place in which to live. 

     

    2026 Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award Honorees

    Headshot of Gift Akere

    Gift Akere

    A freshman at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Gift Akere is pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering. An alumnus of the Maydm Internship Program and a talented musician, Gift uses his passion for music to build community bonds. His contributions as a Teen Teacher at WYSO Music Makers reflect his dedication to nurturing young talent and fostering a sense of community.

    Headshot of Jamaal Eubanks

    Jamaal Eubanks

    Jamaal Eubanks, a proud south side Madison native, is the founder of Eubanks Solutions, an educational consulting business impacting over 500 students. His efforts in mentoring and educational equity include authoring "The Determination to Succeed" and organizing The Determination to Succeed Back to School Summit. Currently pursuing his doctorate in educational leadership, Jamaal focuses on bridging educational gaps among African American male students.

    Headshot of Justice Castaneda

    Justice Castañeda

    As Executive Director of Common Wealth Development, Dr. Justice Castañeda's work revolves around housing, economic development, and violence prevention. With significant roles in shaping local policy, Justice focuses on racial and economic equity in Madison’s neighborhoods. His extensive research and leadership illustrate his commitment to community transformation and justice.

     

     

    Nominations are continuously accepted!

    Accepting nominations for 2027

    You are invited to nominate individuals in the following categories:

    • Youth Leader (ages 13–17)
    • Emerging Leader (ages 18–25)
    • Adult Humanitarian (age 18+)

    Awards are presented annually at the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, which will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026.

    To nominate, please submit an application one of the following ways:

     

    Application

    Youth Leaders (13+) Criteria

    1. Young adults who have demonstrated the principles of Dr. King for at least two or more years;
    2. Have shown visible and continuing leadership in one or more of the following areas: education, religion, civil rights, community or civic services;
    3. Have not previously received this award;
    4. Currently not a member of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award Commission;
    5. Not currently running for office;
    6. City or County Resident.

    Emerging Leaders (18-25) Criteria

    1. Young adults who have demonstrated the principles of Dr. King for at least three or more years;
    2. Have shown visible and continuing leadership in one or more of the following areas: education, religion, civil rights, community or civic services;
    3. Have not previously received this award;
    4. Currently not a member of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award Commission;
    5. Not currently running for office;
    6. City or County Resident.

    Humanitarian (18+) Criteria

    1. Adults actively identified with the Dane County area for at least five years;
    2. Have shown visible and continuing leadership in one or more of the following areas: education, religion, civil rights, politics, community or civic services;
    3. Have not previously received this award;
    4. Currently not a member of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award Commission;
    5. Not currently running for office;
    6. City or County Resident.

    Members of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award Commission will independently rank the nominees. Results will be compared and award recipients will be chosen collectively by the Mayor, County Executive and Commission members.

     

    Nomination form
     
     

     

     

    Award Honorees

    2022      2023     2024     2025     2026 

     

     

    “The time is always right to do what is right.”

    – Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.