Arkansas MLK Commission Brings Nonviolence Youth Summit to Texarkana Featuring Isaac Farris Jr. and Romeo Miller

The Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission, a program of the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, will host the 2026 Nonviolence Youth Summit on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Arkansas High School, 1600 Jefferson Avenue, in Texarkana. The summit will bring together hundreds of students, educators, civic leaders and community partners for a day focused on leadership, nonviolence, civic engagement, career readiness and youth empowerment.

A highlight of this year’s summit will be appearances by Isaac Farris Jr., nephew of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and entrepreneur, actor and philanthropist Romeo Miller, who will deliver keynote remarks encouraging students to lead with purpose, excellence and service.

Designed to equip students with practical skills and inspiration for the future, the summit will feature youth workshops on financial literacy, substance abuse prevention, social-emotional wellness, workforce development, voter education, conflict resolution, and career opportunities in manufacturing and defense industries. Students will also have opportunities to interact with representatives from higher education institutions, public agencies and community organizations.

“The Nonviolence Youth Summit is more than an event; it is an investment in the future of Arkansas,” said Dr. DuShun Scarbrough, Executive Director of the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission. “By connecting students with leaders, mentors and career opportunities, we are helping them understand their potential to become the next generation of community builders, entrepreneurs, educators and public servants.”

Students attending the summit will be encouraged to commit themselves to Dr. King’s principles by pledging to promote equality, remain drug-free, perform community service, and practice the Six Principles of Nonviolence in their daily lives.

The Arkansas MLK Commission continues to host Nonviolence Youth Summits across the state as part of its mission to promote the teachings and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. while empowering youth through education, leadership development and civic engagement.