Philadelphia experienced an intense day of protests, community service, and cultural activities during MLK Day 2026. On Monday, January 19, the city commemorated the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with the nation’s largest Day of Service, but this year’s observance was also marked by strong demonstrations in Center City against ICE actions.
Hundreds of people marched from the Immigration Court at 9th and Market to the ICE offices at 8th and Cherry, denouncing immigration raids and demanding justice for Renee Nicole Good, a woman killed by an ICE agent in Minnesota.
Community leaders, including Reverend Gregory Holston, emphasized that the protest followed King’s tradition of nonviolent resistance. State legislators joined the mobilization, describing it as an urgent call to review federal immigration practices.
Meanwhile, across the city, thousands of volunteers participated in the 31st Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Day of Service. This year, the central project focused on educational equity. Temple University, the regional host site, welcomed Mayor Cherelle Parker, Governor Josh Shapiro, and various organizations to launch the construction of “Book Arks”—small community libraries for neighborhoods with limited access to books.
The day was complemented by community activities in recreation centers, parks, and organizations such as Philabundance. Additionally, cultural events like Justice Fest ’26, held in Chinatown, brought together artists, immigrants, and activists in a multicultural celebration.
A day later, Philadelphia students joined this regional wave of indignation by participating in the “Free America Walkout,” marking the first anniversary of President Trump’s second term. Students left their classrooms and marched to City Hall and the Immigration Court. Girard College students and public-school students walked together to the ICE offices to join the protests. Activists and religious leaders also formed human chains to temporarily block ICE vehicle exits in a coordinated action aimed at slowing agency operations.
In Norristown, protesters of all ages gathered in the township’s center to demand transparency and the protection of civil rights, expressing solidarity with families affected by the raids.
Amid protests for immigration justice, community work, and artistic expression, Philadelphia reaffirmed that King’s legacy remains alive: it is honored through collective action, service, and the defense of civil rights.