Theme: Out of the Mountain of Despair, A Stone of Hope

Philadelphia, PA – To celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of faith and justice, the Citizens Police Oversight Commission (CPOC), with support from Mother Bethel AME Church, will host a MLK Interfaith Brunch Thursday, January 15th, 2026. The purpose of the brunch is to bring together a diverse group of faith leaders in Philadelphia to discuss the parallels to CPOC’s mission to promote transparent and accountable policing through civilian oversight. Faith leaders will be able to speak on their own experiences of policing in the community and learn ways CPOC can partner with clergy and houses of faith to service city residents and improve community police relations. In addition, the winners of CPOC’s inaugural Drum Major for Justice Award will be announced.

Event Details:
Thursday, January 15, 2026
Doors Open at 9:30 AM
Program Starts at 10 AM
Mother Bethel AME Church – 419 S 6th Street, Philadelphia PA, 19147

Program Highlights:
• Greetings from Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr. And Nicolas O’Rourke.
• Remarks by Tonya McClary, Esq., CPOC Executive Director; Ewuare Osayande, Esq., CPOC Deputy Executive Director.
• Winners of the Drum Major for Justice Award: Reverend Dr. Mark Tyler and Elder Melanie DeBouse, CPOC Commissioner.
• Keynote address made by Reverend Carolyn C. Cavaness, Mother Bethel AME Church.

Media Inquiries: Jodie Eichel, Social Media & Communications Officer (215) 685-0891 | Jodie.Eichel@phila.gov

About the Citizens Police Oversight Commission
The Citizens Police Oversight Commission (CPOC) is an independent civilian oversight agency designed to advance the just, transparent, and efficient administration of criminal justice in Philadelphia. CPOC is committed to conducting fair and timely investigations into police conduct, enhancing the quality of internal investigations, and fostering community engagement and trust.