The Columbia Urban League will host its 28th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Keeping the Legacy Alive” Breakfast on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 8 a.m. The event will take place at 1066 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia, SC 29169.
This year’s breakfast will feature Mr. Rick C. Wade as the keynote speaker. Wade serves as Senior Vice President of Strategic Alliances and Outreach at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he leads efforts to expand access to economic opportunity and strengthen partnerships.
Wade has held leadership positions in government, business, and nonprofit organizations, served as senior adviser to Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke, and has represented the U.S. in international trade and policy initiatives. As a former board member of the Columbia Urban League, Wade has long supported efforts to advance economic opportunity and equity in the Midlands. His career reflects a
commitment to public service, community development, and empowering diverse communities nationwide.
The program will also feature remarks from Mr. Antjuan Seawright, founder and CEO of Blueprint Strategy LLC, who will introduce the keynote speaker.
The 2026 theme, “Where, and How, Do We Go From Here?”, is inspired by Dr. King’s final book and calls on attendees to reflect on the future of civil rights, economic equity, and social justice. As Dr. King once said,
“Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable… Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle.”
The annual breakfast brings together community leaders, elected officials, business professionals, and residents to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., while supporting the Columbia Urban League’s mission to empower communities and change lives.
The Columbia Urban League is asking that each attendee make a $30 donation. Donations may be made online at https://www zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ columbia-urban-leagues-28thannual-martin-luther-king-jrbreakfast.
For additional ticket information, visit www.culsc org or contact Ms. Cynthia Baxter at (803) 929-1036.
