Oviedo Citizens in Action (OCIA) proudly continued its tradition of honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through two meaningful community events held in January 2026. Guided by this year's theme, "Courage to Lead—Inspiring a New Generation," the Annual Community Prayer Breakfast and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Fun Day in the Park brought together residents, faith leaders, students, elected officials, and community organizations to celebrate Dr. King's vision of unity, service, and equality.
Prayer Breakfast
The celebration began on Saturday, January 17 with the Annual Community Prayer Breakfast at the Cultural Center in Oviedo on the Park. The event provided an opportunity for community members to gather in fellowship, reflection, and prayer while recognizing the importance of leadership and service in building stronger communities. Attendees enjoyed inspirational music, scripture readings, prayers for unity, and remarks from local leaders. A highlight of the morning was the keynote address delivered by Attorney Lindsay N. Greene, Appointed City Attorney for the City of Sanford. The event also welcomed Mayor Megan Sladek, Seminole County Commissioner Bob Dallari, local clergy, and numerous community partners who joined together in a spirit of hope and collaboration.
Keynote Speaker: Attorney Lindsay N. Greene
Oviedo Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
The celebration continued on Monday, January 19 with the MLK Parade, which stepped off at 10:00 a.m. and made its way through the community, concluding at Oviedo on the Park where the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Fun Day in the Park took place. The parade showcased a strong display of civic pride and community unity, featuring Parade Grand Marshal Ellis B. Feaster, Honorary Grand Marshal Ada Griffin, PD Motor Units, Antonio Ortiz, Oviedo American Legion Memorial Post 243, Glenn from G Praise Van, Oviedo Christian Ministers' Association, Mayor Megan Sladek, Antioch Missionary Baptist Church Usher Ministry, Troop 608 and Pack 608, Oviedo Police Foundation, State Farm Insurance – Jeffrey Campbell, Seminole County Democratic Party, Kinbridge at Oviedo, Oviedo High School Marching Band, Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Greenway Ford Group, Johnson Hill-Washington Heights Community Outreach, Mission BBQ, Mission Road Church of God in Christ, Girl Scout Troop 2422, Hagerty High School and Oviedo High School Black Student Unions, Viva Oviedo Festival, Scenthound Oviedo, Sonic Drive-In, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Oviedo Citizens in Action, Seminole County Sheriff's Office, City of Oviedo Fire Department, and Seminole County Fire Department.
Fun Day in the Park
Following the parade, families, students, community leaders, and residents gathered for a day of entertainment, education, and community connection centered on Dr. King's enduring legacy.
The Fun Day in the Park was hosted by DJ E Rok, a proud Oviedo native whose energy and enthusiasm kept attendees engaged throughout the day. The program featured performances by Errick Gray and Miracle Gray, presentations by the Hagerty High School and Oviedo High School Black Student Unions, inspirational dance performances from New Church of Faith, and participation from local faith leaders, elected officials, sponsors, vendors, and volunteers. Mayor Megan Sladek presented the City of Oviedo's proclamation honoring Dr. King, while OCIA recognized recipients of the "I Have a Dream Award."
Together, these events reflected OCIA's commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices, educating and empowering individuals, and creating opportunities for meaningful community involvement. Just as importantly, they honored the organization's long-standing legacy of advancing equality and ensuring that Dr. King's message continues to inspire future generations.
OCIA extends its gratitude to all participants, volunteers, sponsors, community partners, and residents who helped make these events a success. Through collective service, leadership, and community engagement, we continue to build a more informed, connected, and inclusive Oviedo.
