Celebrating Diversity & Equity in Whatcom County
Whatcom MLK Day Events
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed annually on the third Monday of January to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a pivotal leader in the Civil Rights Movement. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial and social justice and calls us to reflect on the values of equality, nonviolence, and service to others. Dr. King’s vision of a more just and inclusive society continues to inspire action toward meaningful change.
Throughout Whatcom County in 2025, events will offer opportunities to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy, engage in community service, and participate in conversations that advance equity and justice:
Friday, 1/17/2025
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship
In this presentation, Dr. Clyde W. Ford will discuss the history of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day commemoration in Bellingham, his role as the director of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Publishing Project at HarperCollins, and the importance of King as an “inconvenient hero,” beyond the King that most know as the orator of “I Have A Dream.” Join the Waitlist>
Saturday, 1/18/2025
10:00 a.m. – Noon
Bellingham High School
UNITED WE STAND: WHERE JUSTICE, LOVE, AND FREEDOM PREVAIL.
Each year, our community comes together to learn, celebrate, and honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Many in our community continue to struggle, guiding us urgently towards collective service. Learn More>
Saturday, 1/18/2025
12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Squalicum Creek Park
Celebrate the collective power of community by joining the City of Bellingham and the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association (NSEA) as well as many other community partners for our annual Martin Luther King, Jr., Day of Service Community Work Party on Saturday, January 18th from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Willow Spring in Squalicum Creek Park. Together, we will plant native trees and shrubs to restore fish and wildlife habitat and improve water quality to benefit salmon and other native species. Learn More>
Monday, 1/20/2025
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Telegraph Townhomes
4017 Todd Lane, Bellingham
The day will be spent at Telegraph Townhomes. Check-in will begin at 8:45am, complete with coffee and donuts. Lunch will be provided by Frelard Tamales. There will be hot water for cocoa and tea, hand warmers, and a place to keep warm on site. Even if you’re only able to come for a couple hours, we welcome the extra help! Plus, this is an all-ages event so feel free to bring the whole family! We do ask that you register in advance so we can best prepare for everyone. Learn More & Register>
Monday, 1/20/2025
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship
Martin Luther King Jr.’s ideals of justice, equal opportunity, and love and respect for others will be celebrated once again in this year’s iteration on Jan. 20 of a long-running MLK Jr. Day event in Bellingham, hosted by the Community Food Co-op. Learn More>
Whatcom Treaty Day Events
Treaty Day is recognized annually on January 22. Treaty Day marks the anniversary of the signing of Treaty of Point Elliott in 1855 at Mukilteo. The treaty is one of 13 in Washington State that formalized agreements and reciprocal obligations between the United States and Native peoples. Understanding Treaty Day is crucial as it highlights the historical context and the ongoing significance of these treaties in shaping relationships and obligations, including many that remain unfulfilled. It provides an opportunity to reflect on the past and recognize the rights and contributions of Native peoples.
Events throughout Whatcom County in 2025 include:
Thursday, 1/16/2025
Noon – 1:30 p.m.
Treaty Day Map Collection Open House at WWU – Wilson 290
Drop by the Map Collection (Wilson 290) between noon and 1:30 p.m. to explore map stations about the lands, waters, and ways of life affected by the 1855 Treaty of Point Elliott.
Friday, 1/17/2025
5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Vista Middle School, Ferndale
Treaty Day Coastal Jam
Saturday, 1/25/2025
10:oo a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Treaty Day Film Festival
Pickford Film Center, Bellingham
A film festival at Pickford Film Center from 10 AM–2 PM. The festival is created to educate the community about Indigenous perspectives and issues. You can get tickets here.
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