City of Columbus celebrates 25th annual MLK Youth Oratorical Contest

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, Jan. 30, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:
Beth Berkemer
(614) 565-6767 cell
EABerkemer@columbus.gov

City of Columbus celebrates 25th annual MLK Youth Oratorical Contest
Central Ohio students will honor Dr. King's legacy through powerful speeches

COLUMBUS—The City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods will host the City’s milestone 25th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest. It will showcase the voices of K–12 students from across Central Ohio as they deliver original speeches that reflect the life, work and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

This year’s anniversary celebration will feature a day of youth empowerment, recognition and celebration. In addition to advancing to the statewide MLK Oratorical Contest in April 2026, Columbus winners may be invited to speak at other high-profile MLK events across the city.

Students compete in four divisions - Primary (K-2), Intermediate (3-5), Junior (6-8), and Senior (9-12). Each participant delivers a memorized speech in front of a panel of judges who evaluate content, delivery, originality and connection to Dr. King’s values.

This year’s statewide theme is: “I am a new generation leader: An architect of transformational change.” Participants had the option to write and deliver speeches based on this theme or other topics related to Dr. King's vision, values and impact.

What:        25th annual MLK Youth Oratorical Contest

When:       Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where:      Columbus State Community College, Center for Workforce Development

                   315 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, Ohio 43215

Who:          Central Ohio students in grades K–12 along with Mayor Andrew

                   Ginther, families, educators and community leaders

The event and parking are free and open to the public.

NOTE: Photos, graphics, interviews and B-roll may be available upon request.

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Department of Neighborhoods, City of Columbus
The Department of Neighborhoods works from a foundation of devoted residents, committed neighborhood leaders and a dedicated City workforce to resolve community concerns and tap into neighborhood potential, helping to build a stronger, more equitable Columbus. As the “front door” to the city, the Department of Neighborhoods empowers residents, responds to their needs and protects their rights.