JANUARY 16-22, 2026 • Vol. 60 Issue 36 • FREE
IN THIS ISSUE
The Youth Voice shouldn’t be optional
PAGE 4
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Honoring King
MLK Day is Monday, January 19, and there will be events taking place. The Atlanta Voice has put together a special section commemorating King’s legacy and continued impact on Atlanta and the world. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
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MLK Special Section
This mural of Dr. King was created by the artist, @jeks, and is located on Peachtree Street in Midtown. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
Rooted in the Dream: Atlanta’s MLK Day Celebrations By ISAIAH SINGLETON
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artin Luther King Jr. Day is observed on the third Monday of January each year, honoring the life, legacy, and enduring impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as well as the achievements of African Americans throughout history as a vital part of the American story. From parades and exhibits to free admission days and walking tours, there are many ways to commemorate MLK Day in Atlanta in 2026. Begin with honoring Dr. King’s legacy by connecting with historic landmarks and celebrating the lives and work of Atlantans and civil rights icons who helped shape the nation’s progress. The Atlanta Voice has curated five events for the public to participate in: FedEx Free Admission Day – National Center for Civil and Human Rights Saturday, Jan. 17 Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with free admission to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, presented by FedEx. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibitions at no cost and participate in family-friendly activations throughout the day. Activities may
include scavenger hunts, book readings, button making, and a challenge wheel—all designed to engage guests of all ages with the themes of civil and human rights. Reservations are strongly encouraged. • Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Location: National Center for Civil and Human Rights, 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. NW, Atlanta MLK Day at The King Center Monday, Jan. 19 Guided by this year’s theme, “The Time Is Right to Do What’s Right,” MLK Day at The King Center invites visitors to move beyond remembrance and toward action. Often described as a day on rather than a day off, this observance is a call to reflect on Dr. King’s vision and consider how his work continues to shape today’s ongoing struggle for civil and human rights. • Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. • Location: National Center for Civil and Human Rights, 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. NW, Atlanta Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026 – Atlanta History Center Monday, Jan. 19 Celebrate MLK Day at the Atlanta History
Center with I Influence the Dream, a family-friendly program that invites visitors to explore Atlanta’s role in the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King’s legacy through exhibits, expert talks, and interactive experiences. The day includes a Kenan Research Center open house with archival materials, a Herndon Home talk on Atlanta’s first Black millionaire and civil rights supporter, family trivia, and storytelling from community voices. Advanced RSVP is required for free admission. • Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. • Location: Atlanta History Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta 2026 Clayton County MLK Day Parade & Celebration Monday, Jan. 19 Join the community for the Clayton County Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade & Celebration, presented by the City of College Park Recreation & Cultural Arts Department. The parade takes place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., featuring marching groups, music, and decorated floats honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King. Immediately following the parade, enjoy the post-parade celebration with live music, a vendor fair, and family-friendly activities.
This free community event brings neighbors together in unity, reflection, and celebration. • Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. • Location: Tracey Wyatt Recreation Center, 2300 Godby Road, College Park Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Legacy in Motion Monday, Jan. 19 Honor MLK’s legacy with an interactive walk that highlights civil rights and resilience. Created for families and wrapped in a time-travel adventure, the ZeNGY Time Travel Tour places you in Atlanta’s past as you tour civil rights artworks, while the Atlanta Cultural Renaissance Tour through downtown streets honors the city’s creative spirit born from struggle and hope. These free, self-guided experience walks are more than history—they’re a call to explore with purpose. Just download the free Story City app. (Presented in partnership with Atlanta Parks & Recreation and the Office of Cultural Affairs.) • Time: 12 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. • Location: Auburn Avenue Historic District, 145 Auburn Ave. NE, Atlanta
See our MLK SPECIAL SECTION on pages 6 & 7
theatlantavoice.com • JANUARY 16-22, 2026 • Page 3
State
2026 Georgia Legislative Session Begins By DONNELL SUGGS
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or the next 40 legislative days, the Georgia Legislature will begin sponsoring bills, assigning them to committees, posting them to the calendar, passing them, voting on them, and ultimately creating laws for all Georgians. Whether the people of Georgia, with a population of 11 million and growing, like or understand the laws is why coverage of what takes place under the Gold Dome is important for readers. Beginning on Monday, January 12, the Georgia General Assembly, which consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate, gathered under the Gold Dome to begin the 2026 session. Some of the priorities Speaker of the House Jon Burns listed in an email to the press were as follows: property tax reform, housing affordability, increased access to affordable healthcare, and strengthening literacy throughout the state. Housing affordability has been a top concern for the State Representatives currently running for governor. Rep. Derrick Jackson (D-97) and Rep. Ruwa Romman (D-68) attended a Democratic gubernatorial forum in Savannah on Thursday, January 8, and said as much during their time on stage at Jonesville Baptist Church. Three new members of the House Representatives, Akbar Ali (District 106), Eric Gisler (121), and Bill Fincher (District 23), were recognized at the start of the session. The journal of the previous legislative session was approved and confirmed at 10:51 a.m. A 40-day calendar was not unanimously
A pair of Georgia legislators exchange greetings before the start of day one on the floor of the Georgia House of Representatives on Monday, January. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
approved by the House, but was adopted by a majority vote. Romman was one of the representatives who was allowed to pose a question on making the calendar more accepting of religious holidays and observances. She did not vote in favor of the 40-day calendar. Eliminating the state income tax and increasing the literacy rate among Georgia’s children are among the House’s priorities, according to Burns. Regarding the latter, for example, only 32% of Black fourth graders in this state are
reading at proficiency or above, while 43% of white and 53% of Asian peers, according to data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress. Monday was a busy day in the people’s house. Along with the first day of the session, people from all walks of life took to the Capitol’s south steps to state their case for what they believe is important to their fellow Georgians. Black women took advantage of the large amount of press and legislative leadership in
the building by holding a press conference on the south steps. Georgia Black Women’s Roundtable’s “Black Women U3: United, Unapologetic, Unstoppable took place at 11:30 a.m., after the session began. A “Pack the Capitol” event was held in the lobby of the State Capitol. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) hosted it, and it was the first public demonstration to display the collective power of the people, according to a release by the organization. The rally began at 10:00 a.m. Meanwhile, Reproductive Freedom for All Georgia set up a table inside room 216. On the south steps, members of the Georgia Majority for Gun Safety wore bright orange shirts and held signs calling for common-sense gun control. The first House session of the year also began at 10:00 a.m. and ended at 11:30 a.m. The Senate Ethics Committee was scheduled to meet after lunch at 2:00 p.m. On Tuesday, Governor Brian Kemp is scheduled to address the General Assembly about the state’s budget for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The meeting will take place in room 341 and will be available for public viewing via the House broadcast YouTube page. On Wednesday, Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, one of the many people running for the Governor’s office, and Georgia Insurance Commissioner John King will make their pitches to the budget committee at 1 and 1:30 p.m. On Thursday, Attorney General Chris Carr, who is also running for governor, spoke to the budget committee on behalf of the state’s Department of Law.
For the next 40 legislative days, the Georgia Legislature will begin sponsoring bills, assigning them to committees, posting them to the calendar, passing them, voting on them, and ultimately creating laws for all Georgians. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
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Voices
The Youth Voice Shouldn’t Be Optional — It Should Be Mandatory By ANTHONY TILGHMAN
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very town hall, policy hearing, and community roundtable on the future consistently ignores one group: our youth. We speak about their future, legislate around their needs, and implement policies that will directly shape the trajectory of their lives— but rarely do we fully invite them into the room. And even when we do, it’s often symbolic. A token seat, a moment at the mic, a photo op for the press. That isn’t inclusion. Its performance. Let’s be clear: the youth voice shouldn’t be optional. It should be mandatory. Young people aren’t just observing the consequences of today’s decisions—they’re living them. They ride overcrowded and sometimes unsafe school buses. They sit in classrooms impacted by teacher shortages and crumbling infrastructure. They grow up in communities where access to healthy food, affordable housing, and stable internet remains inconsistent. Many witness their families struggling with the rising cost of living, gun violence, and health care disparities. They feel the effects of climate change not in theory, but in their everyday lives—through record heatwaves, flooding, and school closures. And yet, when it comes to shaping the policies that address these challenges, youth are too often told to “wait their turn,” as if civic responsibility and political voice have an age restriction. The truth is, young people already have the passion, the clarity, and the power to lead. What they lack is access. We must stop treating youth engagement as a feel-good checkbox or a public relations gesture. When students organize national walkouts demanding safer schools, when teen activists speak at climate summits or testify before Congress, and when young entrepreneurs launch nonprofits and tech solutions to tackle inequality, they are modeling exactly the kind of leadership we say we want—not someday, but now. Real Youth Leadership Across the Nation Across the country, young people
Photo by Julia Beverly/The Atlanta Voice
are stepping up—and making a measurable impact: • In Chicago, youth involved in the Mikva Challenge have helped shape city budget priorities and criminal justice reform through youth policy councils embedded in government. • In Oakland, student organizers successfully lobbied for the elimination of school police, leading to a reinvestment in student support services and restorative justice programs. • In Florida, the March For Our Lives movement—founded by high school students in the aftermath of the Parkland shooting—has transformed national conversations on gun safety and led to new state and federal legislation. • In Alaska, young Indigenous leaders are pushing for climate justice and land protection, blending traditional knowledge with modern advocacy. These aren’t fringe examples. These are proof points that when we empower youth with tools, access, and decision-making authority, everyone benefits. As 17-year-old activist Naila Williams of New York said during a youth policy summit, “We are not the leaders of tomorrow. We are the leaders right now. Tomorrow isn’t promised—but our futures are already being negotiated.” What the Data Shows According to the Center for
Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) at Tufts University: • Communities that actively integrate youth in decision-making— through school boards, advisory councils, or participatory budgeting—see higher civic engagement, better school attendance, and more equitable policy outcomes. • In Takoma Park, Maryland, 16and 17-year-olds were granted the right to vote in municipal elections, and in the first year, they turned out at twice the turnout rate of older voters. • States and districts that invest in youth leadership programs, like California’s Youth Empowerment Commission or Boston’s Youth Council, report stronger trust between youth and government and increased diversity in leadership pipelines. These outcomes are not abstract. They are the direct result of institutionalizing youth voice—not just inviting it. Building a Culture of Youth Power Imagine every city council, school board, and state legislature with a required youth representative—empowered, trained, and given real voting authority. Imagine town halls held at high schools, not just country clubs. Imagine public budgets co-developed by youth and adult stakeholders. This isn’t a radical vision. It’s what authentic democracy should look like.
Youth engagement must be woven into the structure of our institutions: government, philanthropy, nonprofits, media, and business. That means funding leadership training, creating pathways from classrooms to boardrooms, and ensuring youth can serve on commissions, task forces, and legislative bodies—with pay, mentorship, and real influence. This also means rethinking how we define expertise. Experience is not just something gained over decades—it’s also lived daily by the 14-year-old facing housing insecurity, or the 19-year-old leading a climate strike, or the 16-year-old navigating mental health care for themselves and their peers. These experiences deserve weight in decision-making rooms. The Stakes Are Too High to Exclude the Youth Voice As someone who has worked in education, run after-school programs, and partnered with youth nationwide, I’ve seen firsthand the brilliance and urgency that young people bring when given the space to lead. I’ve also seen how often that brilliance is overlooked because of outdated hierarchies, adultism, or fear of disruption. But disruption is exactly what we need. This is not about giving young people a seat at a table we’ve already set. It’s about rebuilding the table with their leadership as part of its foundation. The issues facing our country— economic inequality, gun violence, climate change, and the erosion of democracy—are too urgent for incrementalism. If we want real, sustainable, forward-thinking solutions, we need to listen to those who will live with the consequences of every decision we make. Young people are ready. They’ve been ready. The only question is: Are we ready to follow their lead? It’s time we stop treating youth engagement as a luxury, a side project, or a one-time grant-funded initiative. The youth voice isn’t charity. It’s not extra. It’s a necessity. Anthony Tilghman, founder of Anthony Tilghman Enterprises, is an award-winning photojournalist, mentor, author, and educator with expertise in photography, marketing, and branding.
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theatlantavoice.com • JANUARY 16-22, 2026 • Page 5
Arts
Examining Black histories: Rosa Duffy’s art exhibition By NOAH WASHINGTON
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nside a refurbished former motel off Old Hapeville Road, artist and archivist Rosa Duffy’s first solo gallery exhibition asks visitors to reconsider how history is handled, altered, and reclaimed. “Uncertain Data: A Counter-Reading,” on view at Hawkins HQ through Feb. 21, brings together sculpture, found materials, and archival imagery to examine how Black histories are distorted, erased, and reassembled. The exhibition, which opened this weekend, marks a milestone in Duffy’s evolving practice, which blends research-driven inquiry with tactile objects that carry symbolism rooted in lived experience. Duffy’s work centers on what she describes as “counter-language,” the cultural systems Black communities create in response to displacement and distortion. Across approximately 16 pieces, burl wood, dice, bingo balls, sheet metal, and Xeroxed images appear repeatedly, forming a visual vocabulary shaped by excess, erosion, and survival. “I center Black materials in my life and choose to share them with other folks,” Duffy said. “The audience that I’m speaking to when I’m making work is a Black audience. That’s
who I make work for.” The show’s title reflects Duffy’s interest in how information changes hands and how meaning is reshaped over time. Many of the works incorporate layered or partially obscured images, referencing how historical narratives are simplified, fragmented or manipulated as they move through institutions and power structures. Numbers recur throughout the exhibition, dice faces, pool balls, and bingo markers, often summing to seven, a figure Duffy associates with spirituality, luck, and excess. “My mom was a mathematician. Numbers were a big part of my life,” she said. “They feel spiritual, and if I’m using gaming objects that already carry numbers, that becomes part of the language.” Several pieces explicitly trace the movement and reduction of Black populations across geography and time. “The Sea” and “Land” function as companion works, referencing the Middle Passage, Gullah Geechee heritage, and the physical and cultural erosion that followed enslavement and migration. In “Ruby’s Bridge,” Duffy incorporates a distorted image from Ruby Bridges’ first day integrating a New Orleans school, anchoring the work in both personal research and collective memory.
“Uncertain Data: A Counter-Reading,” is on view at Hawkins HQ through Feb. 21. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice
“It starts iridescent and becomes duller as the vessels get smaller,” Duffy said. “It’s a very literal example of redaction, of being reduced, but not erased.” The exhibition was developed over more than a year in collaboration with Alexander Hawkins, founder of Hawkins HQ, who said the show continues Duffy’s long-standing investigation into archives, authorship, and the construction of knowledge. “She’s examining how knowledge is collected, who changes it, and why,” Hawkins
said. “This show brings those questions into physical form in a way that feels like a natural evolution of her practice.” Despite the show’s conceptual rigor, Duffy resists prescribing meaning to viewers, saying the work’s success is measured not by clarity or resolution, but by the conversations it sparks. “I don’t need people to walk away saying, ‘I get it now,’” she said. “I don’t even know if I do. I just want them to feel something and talk about it.”
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MLK Special Section
King Center emphasizes nonviolence amid rising social isolation By NOAH WASHINGTON
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e are in need of the beloved community, now more than ever. That message marked the start of the 2026 King Holiday Observance, as The King Center hosted a press conference outlining a series of events honoring what would have been the 97th birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. and renewing a call to nonviolence amid a deeply divided moment in history. The observance, running from Jan. 8 to 19, is guided by the theme “Mission Possible II: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way.” Organizers described the theme as both a response to present-day challenges and a continuation of the King’s unfinished work, a framework for action rather than remembrance alone. “People are anxious. People are weary,” said Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center and daughter of Martin Luther King Jr, during remarks that directly addressed global conflict, domestic polarization, and rising social isolation. She emphasized that the holiday is not about nostalgia, but about equipping people to meet today’s realities with
The King Center hosted a press conference outlining a series of events honoring what would have been the 97th birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice
moral clarity and courage. From politics to the arts, technology to grassroots service, this year’s observance includes in-person, virtual, and hybrid events designed to engage participants of all ages. Programming intentionally highlights both Dr. King’s leadership and the role of Coretta Scott King, whose efforts to institutionalize her husband’s legacy transformed the movement into a global force for education, training, and social change. Among the cornerstone events is the
Beloved Community Global Summit, scheduled for Jan. 15–16 at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The summit will convene leaders across sectors to explore how nonviolence can be applied to public policy, education, civic engagement, and conflict resolution. Youth-focused programming, including a global youth summit, book readings, and teach-ins, will further extend the observance’s reach. Complementary events across the Sweet Auburn Historic District will connect the holiday to the physical spaces that shaped Dr. King’s life. Reggie Chapple, superintendent of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, announced a series of activities designed to deepen public engagement with that history, including a birthday observance at Ebenezer Baptist Church, a volunteer day of service in the park, and a Beloved Community gospel tribute on Jan. 18. Chapple also highlighted plans for a birth home block party along Auburn Avenue, where streets will be closed to allow visitors to learn more about the preservation district and the broader history of the area. While King’s birth home remains closed due to construction expected to conclude in mid-2026,
visitors will be able to experience narrated virtual tours through QR codes, offering a room-by-room walkthrough of the site. Other speakers at the press conference included Jill Savitt, president & CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights; Helen Butler, executive director of the Georgia Coalition for the People’s Agenda; and state Rep. Billy Mitchell, who represents Georgia’s 88th District, to name a few. Throughout the press conference, speakers stressed that the King Holiday Observance is not merely ceremonial. The programming centers Nonviolence365, The King Center’s year-round training initiative that frames nonviolence as a daily practice rather than a one-day commemoration. Organizers said the approach is especially critical as communities confront inequality, political extremism, and dehumanization at home and abroad. “My father also said on many occasions that we are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality tied in a single garment of destiny,” she said. “That means our survival, our flourishing, our future are all collective, and when any community is pushed down, the whole nation sinks.”
MLK Special Section
Mayor of Stockbridge Jayden Williams talks Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy By ISAIAH SINGLETON
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ith Martin Luther King Jr. Day approaching on Monday, Jan. 19, Dr. King’s legacy remains defined by his leadership in the American Civil Rights Movement. Through powerful nonviolent resistance, he championed racial equality and justice, helping to usher in landmark legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. His vision of a “beloved community,” where all people are treated with dignity, equity, and love, continues to inspire global movements for human rights. This year, it is especially important to elevate the significance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day amid the Trump administration’s ongoing attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives—efforts that have included restricting or eliminating commemorations honoring marginalized communities. Early last year, federal agencies moved to ban observances such as Black History Month and Women’s History Month. More recently, Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth were removed from the National Park Service’s calendar of fee-free admission days, while “Flag Day/President Trump’s birthday” was added. The U.S. Department of the Interior
confirmed the cancellation of free admission at all national parks on MLK Day and Juneteenth, meaning visitors must now pay full entry fees on those federal holidays. The Atlanta Voice also sat down with newly elected Stockbridge Mayor Jayden Williams to examine the influence of Dr. King’s legacy on his political career, the continued relevance of King’s vision, and how today’s leaders can honor it in practice. The Atlanta Voice: With Martin Luther King Jr. Day approaching Jan. 19, what kind of influence do you believe MLK carried, and how do you want to carry that throughout your term? Jayden Williams: Martin Luther King Jr showed a forefront of strength and peace. One of the things I want to do as mayor is to demonstrate a peaceful stance and raise the bar for the city of Stockbridge, ensuring that our residents see the mayor and council working collaboratively to ensure a stronger city. I also want to ensure we can stand on our own two feet and support the community in any effort. AV: What is the importance of his legacy today, in your opinion? JW: The importance of his legacy today goes even further back to his father being in the mayor now of his father’s hometown, and to see the legacy throughout the city, even when we traverse through district two to see that
MLK Jr did one of his speeches here at Floyd Baptist church right here in downtown Stockbridge shows his legacy carries on more than just being in the city of Atlanta. He was a man who carried weight in every single community and every single aspect he touched. AV: With the current political climate and the U.S. Department of the Interior confirming the cancellation of fee-free days at all national parks for MLK and Juneteenth, what is your stance on this? JW: The cancellation of fee-free days on MLK Day and Juneteenth misses an important opportunity to expand access to public spaces on days meant to honor justice, freedom, and collective progress, especially for families and communities historically excluded from them. AV: Why do you think it’s important to remember and celebrate days like MLK and Juneteenth? JW: Days like MLK Day and Juneteenth matter because they force us to pause, reflect, and recommit ourselves to the unfinished work of equity, democracy, and shared responsibility. Remembering and celebrating these moments ensures that our history informs our policies, our values, and how we choose to move forward together as a nation. AV: How do you connect the legacy from MLK to the legacy you want to continue
City of Stockbridge Mayor Jayden Williams. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
with Stockbridge? JW: It always goes back to the people and putting your heart where the people are. When I ran my campaign, I ran it on being all in for the citizens of Stockbridge, even at 22 years old. It goes back to what MLK Jr. stood for: being 10 toes down and all in for the people, by the people, ensuring, even over government, policy, and organizations, the people are always upheld. AV: What advice do you have for the new generation coming up as it relates to what MLK stood for? JW: I would use the quote that Shirley Chisholm said when she ran for President. As I’ve told multiple people, Shirley Chisholm said if they don’t give you a seat at the table, you bring a folding chair. Today, especially the next generation, you can’t just bring the folding chair; you must take their seat to really make some change.
theatlantavoice.com • JANUARY 16-22, 2026 • Page 7
MLK Special Section
The Many Images of Dr. King in Atlanta By DONNELL SUGGS
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r. Martin Luther King, Jr. would have turned 97 years old on January 15, 2026. There’s no way to tell that he would still be alive today if he wasn’t assassinated in Memphis on April 4, 1968. In many ways the former Civil Rights leader, senior Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, husband, and father’s legacy continues to live on throughout the United States and all over the world. In his hometown, residents of Atlanta are blessed to be in proximity of a multitude of images of King. From statues, to murals, to The King Center itself, the slain Nobel Peace Prize winner is remembered in many ways in Atlanta. I decided to take a walk around the city to see what so many see when they visit Atlanta to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day holiday: The many images of King. Any respectful King-Atlanta tour must begin in the Sweet Auburn District. The King family home, where King and his siblings were born, is protected and managed by the National Parks Service (NPS). On a cool Monday afternoon, the foot traffic was a non-factor because the two-story home is closed to visitors until June. A restoration project that began last year is taking place in anticipation of a lot more people being in Atlanta and visiting this summer due to the forthcoming FIFA World Cup. Even with the King home closed, there was still a feeling of the immensity of the history this house holds. A plaque at the top of the first staircase on your way to the front door
A man makes his way across Auburn Avenue outside of The King Center. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
says: Martin Luther King, Jr. was born in this house. It will be one of many markers of King’s existence and legacy one finds in Atlanta. Head one block north on Auburn Avenue away from the house and onto the grounds of The King Center., which is part of the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site. Before you walk into The King Center, one will notice how many times you pass photos of King. One black and white image is of Dr. King in a dark suit and a white dress shirt.
The former childhood home of Dr. King and his siblings is currently under renovation. The tourist attraction is scheduled to reopen in June 2026. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
He’s wearing a pair of handcuffs and being escorted by a law enforcement officer. It was one of the more than two-dozen times he was arrested for being non-violent, but not in accordance with America’s laws that once stated a Black men, women, and children couldn’t live, eat, worship, work, and play where white men, women, and children did the same thing. Above your head, at least for the next week, are colorful banners with an image of King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, that read: Mission Possible. With all due to the thousands of cities across the country, the King holiday, a national holiday, is a big deal in Atlanta. The banners can be found all over downtown Atlanta. Something else that can be seen around the city are the many murals
and artist’s renditions of King. Some are portraits of actual photos of King, while others are original pieces. The mural at 1430 Peachtree Street in Midtown is a three-image masterpiece that includes a red rose in the foreground (see page 2). The piece, created by the artist @jeks, is situated between two apartment buildings and overlooks a parking deck. It is considered a hidden artwork, so there might not be a chance for many passersby and tourists to see it on an average day. Good thing there’s a story in a local newspaper to point it out. There are also statues that honor King, which are sprinkled around the city. Starting at his beloved Morehouse College, where a statue of King with his right index finger pointing at whoever approaches Martin Luther
King, Jr. International Chapel. Next, one can move a few blocks away to the intersection of Northside and Martin Luther King, Jr. drive where a statue honors King. Located in the shadow of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the King statue is a popular stop for fans on their way to Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United games. Last week, the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl had fans from Indiana and Oregon in town, and fans could be seen posing for selfies in front of the statue. On Freedom Parkway, “Homage to King”, simultaneously waves hello and goodbye. The statue was created by Xavier Medina-Campeny, a sculptor from Barcelona, Spain, in 1996, 30 years ago this summer. It’s a perfect example of King’s dream and hope for the world: All are welcome.
The marble tombs of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his wife, Coretta Scott King, rest in the center of The King Center. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
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Politics
Savannah hosts first Democratic governors forum of 2026 By DONNELL SUGGS SAVANNAH, Ga. - The first Democratic gubernatorial forum of the year took place on Thursday at a Baptist church. The Democratic Party of Chatham County hosted the forum, and WJCL News anchor Greg Coy was the evening’s moderator. The nave inside Jonesville Baptist Church quickly filled as the locals looked to hear from the men and two women, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and State Rep. Ruwa Romman, running for Georgia’s top seat. A large table sat on a stage behind a pew. The names of the people running for governor and participating in the forum were as follows: Bottoms, Olu Brown, Geoff Duncan, former State Representative Jason Esteves, State Representative Derrick Jackson, State Representative Ruwa Romman, and Former DeKalb County CEO Mike Thurmond. To say this will be a competitive race for the gubernatorial blue seat is a clear understatement. Along with polished and experienced politicians such as Duncan and Thurmond, there are popular and dynamic candidates like Esteves and Romman, along with familiar names like Bottoms. There will also be not-so-familiar names on the primary ballot like Brown, a former pastor of an Atlanta church. The church is tucked within a mostly Black neighborhood on Montgomery Street, so Brown might have been familiar with the evening’s setting. Democratic Party of Chatham County Communications Chair Orlando Scott said his party anticipates this election will be the most important in the state’s history. He took a moment to condemn the militaristic violence that took place in Minneapolis earlier this week. “That is why tonight’s conversation about leadership matters,” Scott said. “Real leadership protects civilians and human rights.” Jonesville Baptist Church Senior Pastor, Bishop James G. Rodges, gave the invocation prior to the start of the forum. He was followed by Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, who said he wanted to welcome everyone to “The greatest city on Earth.” Former Savannah Mayors
The first Democratic gubernatorial forum of the year took place on Thursday at a Baptist church in Savannah, Jonesville Baptist Church. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
Edna Jackson and Otis Johnson were also in attendance. “One of these seven will be our next governor, and I’m glad they found their way to Savannah,” Johnson said. It was the first political forum of the year and also the first for Savannah native Celeste Epps. The 66-year-old told The Atlanta Voice she wanted to be “more informed” and “involved” this time around. Epps sat next to Safronia Ingram, another native of Savannah and an interested party. The forum began with each candidate speaking about how they could be a governor who works with the White House on behalf of Georgians. They each took a shot at the current President during their minute-long statements. “I don’t have to dream about fighting against Donald Trump. I’ve already done it and won,” Bottoms said. The second topic of discussion was housing affordability and how the candidates would tackle that issue. Thurmond, a multi-time elected statewide official, said he would “change and fundamentally shift how people keep roofs over their heads” by giving local leaders, like Johnson in Savannah, more power over housing in their cities and counties.
Esteves received a loud ovation when he said he would stop private equity firms from buying homes in Georgia. “At the end of the day, we need leadership, and that’s what we are lacking,” he said. Romman, who has campaigned on housing affordability, said she also wants to stop corporations from buying homes. The third topic of the forum, providing jobs and continuing the economic development that has taken place during the past terms of Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, followed a break in the live broadcast, which was aired on WJCL 22, the local ABC affiliate. Duncan, the former Lieutenant Governor, stated that economic development needs to occur throughout the state, not just in Atlanta. Bottoms agreed. “Community, compassion, and economic development can go hand-in-hand,” Bottoms said. “I believe in resourcing entrepreneurs,” Brown said while briefly introducing a plan to make cannabis legal and taxed in the state of Georgia. “Your governor has to dream big,” he said. The need to further workforce development was next on the topic list. All seven candidates agreed that the state’s minimum wage
needed to be raised. Romman pointed out that the minimum wage in Georgia hasn’t been raised since she was seven years old in 1997. Esteves, who used affordable child care programs as an example, said, “I think it’s incredibly important to make it affordable for people to go back to work. As governor, I’m going to make sure we fill all of those gaps.” On expanding healthcare in the state, Bottoms said she would expand Medicaid coverage. “Even before the Big Ugly Bill, we did not expand Medicaid.” Duncan said the next governor would have to expand Medicaid, and that would mean working with the State Legislature. Esteves took a slight at Duncan by saying he had an opportunity to do something about expanding Medicaid when he was the Lieutenant Governor. It was the first time during the forum that a candidate addressed another candidate by name. Each candidate had a minute for a closing statement. “There are more of us than there are of them,” Romman said. “You can always count on me to put people ahead of politics,” Esteves said.
Duncan said, “Doing the right thing will never be wrong. The right thing is for Geoff Duncan to run for governor as a Democrat.” Bottoms said, “I am here to earn your vote. This election is about the future.” Thurmond had the boldest closing statement. “I’m Mike Thurmond, and I will be your next governor. From the outhouse to the courthouse. With your vote, we’re going to the governor’s house.” Dexter Jackson, a father of seven and a U.S. Naval veteran, said, “This is personal. Every day when I wake up, I will come to your city. You won’t have to come to Atlanta.” After the forum, Ingram thought the forum was “interesting.” “The main thing I was looking for was facts and data,” she said. “I don’t think all of the candidates presented data.” Ingram added that she thought Duncan, Esteves, and Romman did the best job of providing complete answers to the moderator’s questions. Epps agreed that Esteves and Romman did the best. She had no previous knowledge of either candidate before Thursday night. “I felt they were answering the questions on point,” she said.
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Health
The Weight He Carried: A story of strength and loss By ISAIAH SINGLETON
W
e often hear the saying, “Check on your loved ones, especially the strong ones who carry a heavy weight in silence.” One early spring morning at 7:38 a.m., last April, Atlanta-based filmmaker, writer, director, and producer Corey Knott received a call that changed his life forever. This call was devastating news; he lost one of his closest friends, Maliek Danridge, to suicide. One in three rural Black men reported they experienced suicidal ideation or thoughts of death in the past two weeks, reports a new study from the University of Georgia. Childhood adversity and racism may hold much of the blame. “I just remember feeling sad and hurt, and there were so many questions circulating in my mind,” he said. “I didn’t cry at once; I was still in shock, and I had a little time to prepare before the public found out.” However, all the emotions started racing to Knott as he received even more calls from other friends and castmates. This feeling of grief was all too close to home for Knott, as he had also once lost a cast member who was killed in Atlanta in a car accident. As far as Maliek, his dear friend, says, he didn’t want him to hurt anymore. “I’ve seen him break down; no one saw that behind closed doors. Maliek was tall and big, but to see what he was suffering through was catastrophic and emotional,” he said. “It was not a burden to take on the task of documenting his journey; it was an extreme pleasure to do that for him.” Knott also said Maliek would tell people he wanted to document his life, but never in a million years did Knott think that’s what this was about. “I thought maybe it was cancer or something like that, but I never knew what it truly was until it was too late,” he said. After Maliek’s death, Knott began creating a short documentary
called “The Weight He Carried”. The documentary is not rooted in fiction, but in loss, and serves as an emotional tribute as viewers explore the life, legacy, and lasting impact of a man who transformed beauty into empowerment. The short documentary also examines high-functioning depression, the pressure to be the “strong one,” and the gutting reality that those who heal others are often hurting the most themselves. Knott’s storytelling consistently centers Black and LGBTQ lives with honesty and emotional depth. As the founder of HD Productions Network, Knott has built a powerful outlet for independent scripted series, films, and documentaries that explore love, grief, chosen family, and survival. Maliek Danridge: ‘The Weight He Carried’ Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Black Americans between the ages of 15 and 24, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Suicide is particularly prevalent among Black men, who die by suicide at a rate more than four times that of Black women. From transforming lives in his salon to building a powerful legacy as a Black entrepreneur, Maliek’s untimely passing has left countless hearts broken. Known lovingly as “King Maliek,” he was more than a master stylist; he was a source of inspiration, a mentor, and a beloved soul in both Philadelphia and Atlanta. With a friendship that has only grown tighter since 2018, Knott says Maliek had a bubbly personality and was highly creative. “If your plane ever went down and you got stuck on an island, we are going to eat, drink, and have a fun time,” Knott said. “He will also mask his pain, but at the end of the day, I am a professional masker, so I would let him know he could talk to me.” Maliek, he says, could see into your soul, and was a person who was very vibrant, outgoing, and always there for his friends and community.
Atlanta-based filmmaker, writer, director, and producer Corey Knott made a short documentary called “The Weight He Carried” in honor of his late friend, Maliek Danridge (above), who lost his life due to suicide in April 2025. Photo submitted
“His mouth held none, and that’s what I was so enamored by because for years I’ve had to go the professional route because of what I do, so I have to watch my words,” he said. “Maliek on the other hand, was the opposite of that. He was professional but didn’t hold his tongue, and when we went out, I felt safe; he was a person you could feel safe around.” Knott says Maliek was crucial to the community and a person of value. Also, Knott said creating the documentary was “deeply personal.” For Knott, it was more so a fulfilled request by Maliek himself and a call to action for people dealing with depression. Knott and Danridge also collaborated on one of Knott’s film projects, BluVonte: The Final Chapters. “This is Maliek’s personal story of survival and story. There was something we had discussed that he talked to me personally about,
and for a while, he kept saying he wanted me to tell his story, and I never knew what that meant until he revealed to me what it meant,” he said. While creating the documentary, Knott said he struggled with it at first, contemplating if it was even right to share Maliek’s story. Subsequently, Knott says he feels Maliek was with him throughout the entire process of creating ‘The Weight He Carried.’ He said he was not documenting grief solely but holding someone else’s truth in his hands; in this case, it was his dear friend, whom he wanted to tell his truth while allowing Maliek to still have his dignity. “I wasn’t intentionally going to even do the documentary because a lot of the personal things he did share, I was not putting it in simply because he was not here in the present form,” he said. “The things I felt he would like for me to share
with the world had a lot to do with the weight he was carrying, dealing with, and the uphill battle he was constantly going through.” Advice, healing, & more When people watch the documentary, Knott said he wants people to take away the lesson of paying attention to red flags and watching out for their friends, especially the strong ones. “The strong ones normally tend to be the ones carrying all the weight, and by weight, I mean your emotions,” he said. “Whenever you call your strong friends and expect them to sit and listen to your problems, 10 out of 10 times, they’re battling something themselves, so they take on the weight of family members, close friends, best friends, and sometimes associates you’re not even close with and they feel all of that, but never take the time to heal themselves.”
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Business
‘Let’s Stay Focused On the Future’: Eggs and Issues 2026 By DONNELL SUGGS
T
he 2026 Eggs & Issues conference, the 72nd edition, took place on the field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday morning. Hosted by the Georgia Chamber, the event featured hundreds of tables and chairs on the field, filled with local and statewide executives from corporations such as Georgia Power, Delta Air Lines, and others. Alongside those business executives were politicians, including Georgia Lt. Governor and current Republican gubernatorial candidate Burt Jones, Georgia Speaker of the House Jon Burns, and Democratic gubernatorial candidate and former State Representative Jason Esteves. Along with Georgia Power CEO and President Kim Greene and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp took the stage to address the crowd on hand. For Kemp, this would be his last time speaking at an Eggs & Issues as governor. He made a point of saying that, while also taking a shot at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, which ceased printing papers on New Year’s Eve 2025. In the middle of his speech about the economic growth of Georgia’s economy and the importance of continuing the cooperation between the governor’s office and the Georgia General Assembly, Kemp said it might be time for “the Atlanta paper that went full digital” to get the story right. “Maybe now they will have the resources to be able to tell the whole story,” Kemp said. On a more positive note, Kemp thanked
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp (above) spoke about the economy and Georgia’s budget surplus. “Let’s stay focused on the future, and let’s keep continuing to be the best state in the country to live and work,” Kemp said. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
Dickens for working with his office over the years. During his speech, Kemp stated that his administration was responsible for keeping Georgia’s economy on the right track during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. “We led the great recovery and built the strongest economy Georgia has ever seen,” he said. A lame duck governor, Kemp said the citizens of Georgia should be a politician’s main
focus, whether in an election year like 2026 or not. He added that during his time under the Gold Dome, $9.7 billion has been returned to Georgia taxpayers. The work Kemp is trying to do for Georgians includes $1.8 billion for a dedicated express lane project on I-75 in Henry County. When he announced that project, loud applause followed. The traffic in metro Atlanta is notorious for its congestion, but the traffic in the Henry County corridor has been studied for the
amount of time it costs commuters. “We listened to the people and put them first,” Kemp said. Kemp also announced $100 million for improvements on local bridges. During his two terms as governor, billions have been spent on infrastructure projects, transportation projects, and water infrastructure projects, according to Kemp. “All of this additional funding for transportation projects is certainly needed,” Kemp said. “Those projects are a direct result of our conservative approach to budgeting.” As of fiscal year 2025, the state of Georgia has a $14.6 billion surplus. “Let’s stay focused on the future, and let’s keep continuing to be the best state in the country to live and work,” Kemp said. Burns made sure not to leave the stage without saying his signature line, “It’s a great day to be in Georgia,” he said. “Today, we are setting the stage for what will undoubtedly be another year of great success.” Burns took his time on stage to also address the child literacy rate in Georgia. Among elementary school students, for example, one in three students can read at their proper grade level. “One in three is unacceptable,” Burns said. “It frustrates me that we are performing so poorly in literacy. We must do better for the future of our children.” According to Burns, plans are in place to have a literacy coach in every elementary school in the state. That was also followed by loud applause.
Sports
Atlanta United releases preseason schedule By DONNELL SUGGS Atlanta United (5-13-16 overall in 2025) has released its 2026 preseason schedule. Along with a match at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground, the team will play several matches in Texas. Last season, Atlanta United finished at the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference standings. The story of the 2025 season will include injuries to key players, 16 losses, tough draws, and ultimately, a coaching change, as manager Ronny Deila was fired at the end of the season. Longtime goalkeeper and fan favorite, Brad Guzan, has also retired, while former manager Tata Martino was brought back to lead the club. Martino managed the club to a 2018 MLS Cup title and most recently managed Inter Miami FC before being fired. The preseason will also provide
an opportunity for some of the team’s young players, such as Matt Edwards, to continue their development. The Five Stripes will begin the preseason on their training grounds on Friday, January 30. The opponent, Lexington SC, is a United Soccer League club out of Kentucky. The match will take place at 11 a.m. Next on the schedule will be MLS opponent, the Houston Dynamo, on Saturday, February 7. That match will take place at 8 p.m. on the Dynamo’s home turf, the Shell Energy Stadium in Houston. Atlanta United will remain in Texas, playing matches against Red Bull New York on Wednesday, February 11 (noon), and on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14 (1 p.m.). Both matches will take place at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas.
Atlanta United's 2026 preseason schedule is released. After a tough 2025 season, the team looks to bounce back with new manager Tata Martino. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
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Life
Street Lines: 2026 Nissan Z Performance M/T By DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON AKA ALE SHARPTON
A
fter writing high praises for the 2024 Nissan Z Performance in Street Lines, I was undoubtedly excited about what the ’26 version had to offer. Well, my wait was rewarded with an upgraded coupe that came with more power, the manual transmission coming standard (although a 9-speed automatic is optional), and numerous tech features while honoring its heralded fourth-generation 300ZX “Z32” of yesteryear with some throwback alterations. Dressed in a head-turning Bayside Blue, the eye will also be pleased with other exterior standouts paying homage to the old school. From the 19-inch forged RAYS wheels wrapped in performance tires, to the long hood with what the automaker calls a “Z bulge, replica 240ZG headlights, and a grille sporting the signature honeycomb mesh, Nissan did a great job
Photo courtesy of Nissan
balancing the old with the new. One thing that did not mimic the vintage Z was what’s under the hood. The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 flexes 400 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft of torque. Paired with the aforementioned 6-speed manual transmission and an EXEDY high-performance clutch, the Z possesses the thrills we were expecting. Other 2026 features include the SynchroRev Match to enhance upshifts and downshifts; launch control; and a mechanical limited-slip differential to make every gear change…well,
JANUARY 16-22, 2026 • www.theatlantavoice.com
feel like one. The sport-tuned suspension and speed-sensitive power steering add ideal complements to the thrilling driving experience. Of course, the four-wheel vented disc brakes and prominent red calipers keep those behind the wheel confident while trying all the powertrain’s enhancements. Inside, Nissan continues to balance modern tech with the classic Z. A 12.3-inch digital dashboard is paired with a three-bay gauge cluster from the old school. Comfort and craftsmanship come from the
leather-appointed seats with performance suede appointments; heated power seating for both driver and passenger; aluminum pedals; and a leather-wrapped steering collectively elevating the cockpit’s opulence. Tech and safety also get some love. The signature NissanConnect suite; a nine-inch touchscreen with navigation; wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity; Wi-Fi hotspot; two USB ports; and banging 8-speaker Bose audio sound system with active noise cancellation ensure premium entertainment. Easing the
mind, there are numerous driver-assist features including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic alert to name a few. With a price starting at $52,970 and $55K as tested, the 2026 Nissan Z Performance successfully brings authentic, old-school design complemented with today’s innovation without breaking the bank. For sports car enthusiasts who are die-hards when it comes to manual transmission, have love for the Z generations, and overall wants to own a two-seater that promises to be an instant collectible from 2026, on, this Performance Z is the one. Fuel Economy: As reviewed, 2026 Nissan Z Performance with manual transmission is 18 city/24 highway, 20 combined Price: The 2026 Nissan Z Performance starts at $52,570 and Kicks SR AWD starts at $55,190 as reviewed with premium paint and Floor Mat Package. For more information, visit Nissanusa.com
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Page 12 • JANUARY 16-22, 2026 • theatlantavoice.com
Love. Courage. Hope. Dr. King’s beliefs stand strong today. From his unwavering commitment to equality to his pursuit of a more compassionate world, Dr. King has inspired generations to lift each other up and be the love in their community. In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we reflect on his teachings and find inspiration in those who carry his ideals forward.