Alpha Phi Alpha Chapter in Maryland Cancels MLK Scholarship Breakfast in Solidarity With Hotel Workers

The Iota Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., an alumni chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha seated in Silver Spring and serving Montgomery County, Maryland, has announced the cancellation of its 49th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Breakfast, choosing to stand in solidarity with hotel workers amid an ongoing labor dispute.

The event was scheduled for January 19, 2026, and was set to take place at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center. The decision follows a labor dispute between the hotel’s management and UNITE HERE Local 25, the labor union representing hotel workers across the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region.

In a statement, the chapter explained that while canceling one of its most significant annual programs was not an easy decision, it was one rooted in principle.

“While canceling one of our most significant programs of the year was not an easy decision, we believe it was the ethical course of action,” the chapter said. “Our fraternity has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to social justice, economic equity, and advocacy for all working people.”

The cancellation also aligns with the theme of this year’s breakfast, “Rekindling the Dream as We Defend Our Rights.” Martin Luther King Jr., a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., was a vocal advocate for workers’ rights and economic justice, including his support of the 1968 Memphis sanitation workers’ strike.

“To proceed with an event honoring Bro. King, while a labor dispute remains unresolved, would be inconsistent with both his legacy and our fraternity’s core values,” the chapter stated.

For nearly five decades, the Alpha Scholarship & Charitable Foundation has awarded tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships to high school students in Montgomery County pursuing higher education. Proceeds from the annual MLK Jr. Scholarship Breakfast serve as a critical funding source for these awards.

Although canceling the event has created a financial challenge, Iota Upsilon Lambda reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling the scholarships promised to students. Community members who have already purchased tickets, advertisements, or sponsorships are encouraged, if able, to treat those purchases as tax-deductible donations to support the scholarships. Refunds are also available upon request.

The chapter provided this link to donate: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/ASCFofIUL

As the chapter looks ahead to hosting its 50th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Breakfast in 2027, members expressed gratitude for the community’s continued support.

“We are deeply grateful for the community’s continued support as we strive to honor Bro. King’s legacy—not only by our words, but through our actions,” the chapter said.