Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade

Reconnecting Communities, Uplifting Voices

Caltrans proudly participated in the 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade in Southeastern San Diego and National City, standing in solidarity with the community to honor Dr. King’s legacy and advance our Reconnecting Communities initiative. This annual event was more than a celebration—it was an opportunity to walk alongside our Community-Based Organization (CBO) partners, uplift local voices, and showcase our “people first” vision for transportation equity.

Our parade team featured live drummers, spoken word poetry by Khalil, and vibrant music that energized the route from Valencia Park Elementary to MLK Park. Community engagement continued at our booth, where families interacted with a large community map, placing icons to highlight local assets like parks, bike paths, and libraries. Children received free coloring books and helmets decorated with stickers promoting safety and fun.

We thank our CBO partners for helping coordinate this effort, joining us along the route in a Caltrans vehicle, and spreading positivity throughout the day. Together, we’re building bridges—both literal and symbolic—to reconnect communities and invest in a more inclusive future.