Needham Lifts Voices, Spirits for MLK Day Ceremony

January 19, 2026
• In commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his enduring legacy, Needham students and residents channeled their tributes through the arts on Monday.

The five-act ceremony featured local and Boston-based artists, followed by reflections by community leaders and closing performances highlighting resilience, unity and love. Titled “We the People,” the ceremony highlighted Black authors and poets, dancers, musicians and creatives, past and contemporary.

Hosted at the Needham High School auditorium, the event was sponsored by the Needham Diversity Initiative, Human Rights Committee, Interfaith Clergy Association and the Needham Public Schools.

Needham Local will have more on the ceremony this week. Here are some photos from the event:

The Needham High School Bomb Squad Step Group performs during the ceremony. (Cameron Morsberger)
Damian Acevedo recites his original poem, “People’s Assumptions,” during the ceremony. (Cameron Morsberger)
Puppeteers with Needham High School showcased their creations in the form of sea creatures, birds, ears and other sculptural objects between segments of the event. (Cameron Morsberger)
Rev. Nicholas Morris-Kliment of Christ Episcopal Church and Dr. Huma Farid, a member of Needham’s Muslim community, offer remarks. (Cameron Morsberger)
Members of OrigiNation Cultural Arts Center, a Boston arts nonprofit, performed a series of routines throughout the ceremony. (Cameron Morsberger)
Needham Public Schools Superintendent Dan Gutekanst delivered remarks as part of the MLK Day Ceremony. (Cameron Morsberger)
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