Nominations open for Chandler’s Dr....

CHANDLER, Ariz. - Nominations for the City of Chandler's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awards Program are open. This annual awards program honors the accomplishments of residents who contribute significantly to creating a compassionate and socially just community through their dedication to human and civil rights.

There are three award categories:

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Achievement Award
This award recognizes individuals who embody the values and ideas of Dr. King as evidenced by their extensive work promoting social and economic justice, defending civil rights and enhancing the dignity of all people in the Chandler community.

Emma Arbuckle Empowerment Award
This award recognizes individuals who work to empower the community by creating opportunities for leadership, racial equality and solidarity. The award is named in honor of Ms. Emma Arbuckle, a resident of South Chandler who was a leader, advocate and matriarch in the Chandler community.

Youth Action Award
This award recognizes a student (18 and younger) actively working to promote non-violence, commitment to service and courage amongst their peers. This nominee should actively work in the community in a capacity that supports the values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The winner of this category will receive a $500 award.

To be considered, all nominations must be received by noon on Friday, Dec. 11. Nominations can be submitted online at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awards and should cite the nominee's specific efforts and accomplishments. The nominees must be strong advocates for human and civil rights and either live, work or attend school in Chandler. Self-nominations will not be considered. Detailed nominee criteria and previous winners are available online.

The winners will be notified during the week of Dec. 14, and the awards will be presented during a ceremony on Friday, Jan. 15, 2027, with a reception to follow.

For more information on the annual Dr. MLK Jr. Awards program, contact Adrianna Tušek Erickson with the city's Connection & Impact Division by email or at 480-782-2224.

Media contact:
Betsy Lizer
City of Chandler
480-782-2225