Dr. Bernice A. King Joins On-Field Ceremony for Coin Toss Honoring Her Father’s Legacy
Atlanta, GA – Jan. 20, 2025 — In a powerful moment that blended sports, symbolism, and social justice, Dr. Bernice A. King, daughter of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., stood at midfield to participate in the official coin toss ceremony ahead of the CFP National Championship Game against Ohio State Buckeyes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
The special honor was a tribute not only to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy but also to Dr. Bernice King’s ongoing work to carry his mission forward through advocacy, education, and nonviolence. As the youngest child of Dr. King and Coretta Scott King, she has spent her life championing the vision of the Beloved Community — a world grounded in justice, equality, and love.
With stadium lights beaming and fans on their feet, the moment captured the attention of millions as Dr. King stood at the heart of the action, flanked by team captains and officials. The coin toss became more than a ceremonial start — it was a call to conscience, a reminder of the values Dr. King fought for and the responsibility we all share in continuing that fight.
“It was an honor to be part of a moment that connects purpose with platform,” Dr. King said. “My father believed in the power of unity, community, and nonviolence. Standing on that field was a symbol of how far we’ve come — and how far we still must go.”
The event also included video tributes and public service messages encouraging equality, justice, and community impact — themes central to both Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and Dr. Bernice King’s ongoing leadership at The King Center in Atlanta.
As CEO of The King Center, Dr. King leads initiatives on nonviolence training, youth engagement, social justice, and policy change. Her presence at high-profile cultural moments like this coin toss ensures that the message of nonviolent social transformation continues to resonate across generations and arenas.
To learn more about Dr. Bernice King’s work and upcoming events, visit BerniceKing.com and follow her on social media @BerniceKing.
