Louisville, KY, December 18, 2025
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg has announced that Yvette Gentry and Darrell Griffith will receive the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award for their outstanding contributions to the community. The prestigious awards will be presented at the annual Keepers of the Dream event, honoring individuals who foster civic engagement and community pride. Gentry, known for her work in community safety and social equity, and Griffith, a former basketball player and educator, exemplify the spirit of service that the award celebrates.
Louisville KY Honors Yvette Gentry and Darrell Griffith with 2026 MLK Freedom Award
Local leaders recognized for their contributions to the community
Louisville, KY – In a powerful announcement aimed at fostering community pride and engagement, Mayor Craig Greenberg has declared that Yvette Gentry and Darrell Griffith will each receive the prestigious 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award. These accolades will be presented during the annual Keepers of the Dream event on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at The Kentucky Center. This initiative exemplifies the strong community spirit of Louisville, where individual contributions significantly impact local culture and growth.
The recognition of Gentry and Griffith not only highlights their personal achievements but also reflects the potential for collective public engagement. The streamlined coordination of events like Keepers of the Dream showcases the power of local leadership and community initiative. By recognizing individuals who have made meaningful contributions, the city encourages ongoing civic participation and inspires future generations.
Celebrating Yvette Gentry
Yvette L. Gentry is a remarkable leader in Louisville’s initiatives for community safety and social equity. She serves as the Director of Resident and Community Safety at LDG Development, a well-respected affordable housing developer. Notably, she made history in 2020 when she became the first woman to serve as interim Chief of the Louisville Metro Police Department. Over her 20-year career with LMPD, Gentry demonstrated unwavering commitment to community safety.
Beyond her law enforcement background, Gentry’s roles as Executive Director of the Rajon Rondo Foundation and Director of Justice and Opportunity at Metro United Way speak to her dedication to social justice and community empowerment. A proud Louisville native and U.S. Army National Guard veteran, she continues to advocate for equity and justice in our neighborhoods.
Highlighting Darrell Griffith
Darrell Griffith, a celebrated retired professional basketball player, amplifies the message of community leadership through his legacy in sports and education. Known for his 11-year tenure with the Utah Jazz and earning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 1981, Griffith’s athletic acclaim is matched only by his commitment to his home city. He was a significant figure during the University of Louisville’s first NCAA Championship win in 1980, earning accolades such as the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four and the Wooden Award.
Post-retirement, Griffith returned to the University of Louisville as a university ambassador, showcasing his dedication to fostering educational and athletic opportunities for local youth. His influence as a sports icon continues to resonate, uniting community members and inspiring future generations to pursue their aspirations.
Understanding the Keepers of the Dream Event
The Keepers of the Dream event serves as a cornerstone for community engagement, creating a platform for celebrating the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year’s theme, “Keepers of the Dream: Beyond the Dream,” emphasizes ongoing efforts toward progress and reconciliation. The evening will feature a short play entitled “Beyond The Dream,” which intricately weaves together music, dance, and spoken word. The creative team behind the performance includes playwrights Rheonna Thornton and Nipsey Green, with direction by LaShondra Hood, ensuring an engaging and thought-provoking experience for attendees.
Community Involvement and Opportunities
The Keepers of the Dream event is free and open to the public, reflecting the community’s commitment to inclusivity and participation. Local citizens are encouraged to attend this inspirational gathering to honor the achievements of Gentry and Griffith, engage with their fellow community members, and reflect on the work yet to be done in pursuit of equity and justice.
Conclusion
As Louisville prepares to celebrate the significant contributions of Yvette Gentry and Darrell Griffith at the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award ceremony, this occasion serves as a testament to the incredible potential of community-driven initiatives. By recognizing outstanding local figures, the city can continue to foster an environment where civic engagement thrives. Residents are encouraged to support local events like Keepers of the Dream and stay actively involved in the growth and development of the Louisville community.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award?
- The Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award is an annual honor presented to individuals who have exemplified the ideals of Dr. King and have made significant contributions to the community.
- When and where will the 2026 awards be presented?
- The 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Awards will be presented at the annual Keepers of the Dream event on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at The Kentucky Center in Louisville, KY.
- Who are the recipients of the 2026 awards?
- The recipients are Yvette Gentry, Director of Resident and Community Safety at LDG Development, and Darrell Griffith, a retired professional basketball player and University of Louisville ambassador.
- What is the theme of this year’s Keepers of the Dream event?
- The theme is “Keepers of the Dream: Beyond the Dream,” featuring a short play interwoven with music, dance, and spoken word, written by Rheonna Thornton and Nipsey Green and directed by LaShondra Hood.
- Is the Keepers of the Dream event open to the public?
- Yes, the annual Keepers of the Dream event is free and open to the public.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Keepers of the Dream |
| Event Date | Sunday, January 18, 2026 |
| Location | The Kentucky Center, Louisville, KY |
| Theme | Keepers of the Dream: Beyond the Dream |
| Featured Performance | “Beyond The Dream,” a short play interwoven with music, dance, and spoken word |
| Playwrights | Rheonna Thornton and Nipsey Green |
| Director | LaShondra Hood |
| Admission | Free and open to the public |
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