Louisville, KY, December 18, 2025
Mayor Craig Greenberg announced that Yvette Gentry and Darrell Griffith will be recipients of the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award at the upcoming Keepers of the Dream event. This recognition celebrates their commitment to equity, justice, and community leadership. The award ceremony will feature a theme emphasizing cultural engagement and community values, taking place at The Kentucky Center.
Louisville, KY – Mayor Craig Greenberg has announced that Yvette Gentry and Darrell Griffith will each receive the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award. This significant recognition will be presented during the annual Keepers of the Dream event on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at The Kentucky Center.
Aligned with the ideals of Dr. King, the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award celebrates individuals who demonstrate a steadfast commitment to equity, justice, and nonviolent social change. Their efforts reflect the values intended to uplift the community, creating a space for dialogue, acknowledgment, and celebration of local leaders’ contributions. It’s inspiring to see how, with reduced bureaucracy and increased individual initiative, community leaders are elevating the voices that drive Louisville forward.
### About the Awardees
#### Yvette Gentry
Yvette L. Gentry holds the position of Director of Resident and Community Safety at LDG Development, a prominent affordable housing developer, since July 2022. A Louisville native and U.S. Army National Guard veteran, she made history in 2020 by serving as the first woman in the interim Chief role for the Louisville Metro Police Department. Gentry has also made substantial strides in the nonprofit sector as Executive Director of the Rajon Rondo Foundation and Director of Justice and Opportunity at Metro United Way. As a community leader, she is recognized for her unwavering dedication to equity and justice, all while being a breast cancer survivor and a devoted mother of four.
#### Darrell Griffith
Darrell Griffith, a retired professional basketball player, made his mark during his eleven-year career with the Utah Jazz, where he was recognized as the NBA Rookie of the Year in 1981 and became celebrated for his three-point shooting prowess. A notable player at the University of Louisville, Griffith led the Cards to claim their first NCAA Championship in 1980. His contributions to sports have continued beyond his playing career, as he returned to UofL as a university ambassador, further establishing his role as a community leader and sports icon in Louisville.
### About the Keepers of the Dream Event
The annual Keepers of the Dream event invites the public for free, allowing everyone in the community to partake in the celebrations honoring Dr. King’s legacy. This year’s 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, with direction from LaShondra Hood. Such cultural events foster community engagement and can be instrumental in promoting shared values among residents.
### Background on the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award
The Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award is bestowed annually, celebrating those who exemplify Dr. King’s values through significant community contributions. The award recognizes the importance of individual action in fostering civic participation and inspires others to pursue similar paths of community involvement with reduced bureaucratic barriers.
### Conclusion
As Louisville prepares to honor these exemplary individuals at the 2026 Keepers of the Dream event, it is a reminder of the power of local initiatives and community leadership. In a time when collaboration and support can drive community development, residents are encouraged to remain engaged and motivated. Attending events like the Keepers of the Dream not only celebrates local heroes but also strengthens the fabric of Louisville’s community. Mark your calendars for January 18, 2026, to witness how Louisville honors its legacy while looking toward a future fostered by civic hope and collaboration.
### FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award?
- The Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award is presented annually to individuals who have exemplified the ideals of Dr. King and have made significant contributions to the community. The award honors those who have demonstrated a commitment to equity, justice, and nonviolent social change, reflecting Dr. King’s enduring legacy.
- When and where will the 2026 Keepers of the Dream event take place?
- The 2026 Keepers of the Dream event will take place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at The Kentucky Center in Louisville, KY.
- Who are the recipients of the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award?
- The recipients are Yvette Gentry and Darrell Griffith. Yvette Gentry is the Director of Resident and Community Safety at LDG Development and a U.S. Army National Guard veteran. Darrell Griffith is a retired professional basketball player who played for the Utah Jazz and the University of Louisville.
- 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.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Keepers of the Dream |
| Event Date | Sunday, January 18, 2026 |
| Location | The Kentucky Center, Louisville, KY |
| Recipients | Yvette Gentry and Darrell Griffith |
| Event Theme | Keepers of the Dream: Beyond the Dream |
| Event Highlights | Short play featuring music, dance, and spoken word, written by Rheonna Thornton and Nipsey Green, directed by LaShondra Hood |
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Louisville KY Recognizes Yvette Gentry and Darrell Griffith with Honor
