Houston to Host Single, Unified MLK Day Parade in 2026 After Decades of Separate Events

For the first time in over three decades, Houston will celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a single, unified parade on January 19, 2026. Mayor John Whitmire announced a historic agreement, championed by his administration, that brings together the organizers of Houston’s two longstanding MLK Day parades: the Black Heritage Society, Inc., and the MLK Grande Parade – Houston.

The agreement follows weeks of discussions led by Mayor Whitmire’s team, alongside At-Large Council Member Willie Davis, Teresa Brewer (President of the Black Heritage Society, Inc.), and Charles Stamps (Chairman & CEO of the MLK Grande Parade – Houston).

“I knew it could be done, and I knew it had to be done for safety, for cost, and most importantly, to properly honor Dr. King,” said Mayor Whitmire. “For 32 years, many have tried and been told it couldn’t happen. But two proud organizations came together, and we made it happen.”

Historically, Houston has hosted two separate MLK Day parades. The Black Heritage Society, Inc., founded by Ovide Duncantell Jr. in 1974, organized what is considered the nation’s first MLK Day parade in 1978. In 1995, Charles Stamps, a former volunteer with the Black Heritage Society, began the MLK Grande Parade, leading to two distinct celebrations held concurrently for many years. This new agreement marks an end to that longstanding division.

Teresa Brewer, President of the Black Heritage Society, Inc., expressed enthusiasm for the joint initiative, stating, “In honor of Ovide Duncantell Jr., we are dedicated to leading the parade and embracing the sacrifices needed as we move forward into the next chapter of our story. This moment is significant as we navigate a world that often lacks sacrificial love, meaningful conversations, truth-telling, and healing.”

Dr. Charles Stamps, Chairman and CEO of the MLK Grande Parade, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the goal of promoting “racial/cultural harmony in Houston and throughout the world.” He added that the 2026 MLK Unity Parade will feature “a combination of many groups and organizations representing all cultures, ethnicities, and religious beliefs consistent with the doctrines of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”

More details regarding the unified event, including its route and participation information, are expected to be released in the coming weeks. Mayor Whitmire encourages all Houstonians to support the Unity Parade as spectators or by marching or riding a float, calling the agreement “one of the clearest examples” of his commitment to uniting the city.