.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... The mission of the Martin Luther King Jr. State Commission is to promote the late civil rights leader’s philosophy of nonviolence, unity and opportunity for all through a host of programs. The commission conducts MLK youth leadership conferences and organizes events around Martin Luther King Jr. Day, including the MLK March/Parade and Commemoration Ceremony in Albuquerque on the Saturday before the National King Holiday in January. The MLK Commemoration Ceremony held directly after the march down Martin Luther King Boulevard to Civic Plaza includes youth vocal and dance performances, keynote speakers and awards, kicking off celebrations throughout the state commemorating the birthday of the civil rights activist, preacher and author.