Yolanda Denise King


Born on November 17, 1955, Yolanda Denise King was an activist, actress, and the eldest child of civil rights leaders Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. Growing up in Montgomery, Alabama, during the height of the civil rights movement, she witnessed significant events, including the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the bombing of her family’s Birmingham home.

Yolanda graduated from Smith College with a degree in theater and African American studies, later earning an MFA from New York University. Through acting, she promoted themes of equality and peace, portraying figures like Rosa Parks and participating in films like Ghosts of Mississippi. Yolanda passed away on May 15, 2007, at age 51, leaving a legacy of artistic activism.

Martin Luther King III


Born on October 23, 1957, Martin Luther King III is the eldest son of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. A human rights advocate, King III works to advance his parents’ legacy of nonviolence and equality. Growing up during the civil rights movement, he experienced his father’s assassination at age 10.

King III graduated from Morehouse College with a degree in political science. As president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (1997–2004), he promoted voter rights, gun control, and poverty alleviation. He founded non-profit organization Realizing the Dream to carry on the legacy of his parents carrying out initiatives on both the domestic and international level and continues to advocate for justice globally. He lives with his wife, Arndrea Waters King, and their daughter, Yolanda Renee King.

Dexter Scott King


Born on January 30, 1961, Dexter Scott King was the second son of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. An activist, author, and filmmaker, Dexter passed away on January 22, 2024, following a battle with cancer.

Dexter played a significant role as chair of The King Center, an institution established by Coretta Scott King to preserve the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. During his tenure, he focused on modernizing the center and promoting its mission to educate others about nonviolence.

Though he did not complete his studies at Morehouse College, Dexter dedicated his life to promoting nonviolence, authoring Growing Up King, and producing documentaries on civil rights. He also advocated for animal rights and veganism. His contributions to civil rights discussions and his father’s teachings remain impactful.

Bernice Albertine King


Born on March 28, 1963, Bernice Albertine King is the youngest child of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. An attorney, minister, and activist, Bernice is CEO of The King Center, leading its modernization since 2012.

A graduate of Spelman College, Bernice holds degrees in divinity and law from Emory University. She launched initiatives like “Nonviolence365,” training individuals in conflict resolution and social change. Despite family disputes over Martin Luther King Jr.’s estate, Bernice’s leadership inspires efforts for a peaceful, equitable world, continuing her parents’ vision for justice and nonviolence.