On Labor Day morning, as cities across the country gather for parades and celebrations, Memphis will hit the pavement for a different kind of gathering—one grounded in unity, healing, and forward momentum.
The Unite Memphis 5K and 1-Mile Walk/Run returns for its fourth year on Monday, September 1 at 9:01 a.m., and for the first time, it will take place in direct partnership with the National Civil Rights Museum—further cementing the event’s focus on honoring history while shaping the future. This year’s race also falls on 901 Day, Memphis’ own civic pride celebration named after the city’s area code, offering a symbolic backdrop for what has become a growing movement of reconciliation and community connection.
More than a race, Unite Memphis is a grassroots initiative with a clear mission: to bring together individuals from all walks of life in pursuit of a more unified Memphis. Originally launched as the Race for Reconciliation in 2021, the event has grown each year, drawing families, students, civic leaders, and changemakers from across the region.
“This is more than a 5K—it’s a statement,” said Karin Conlee, CEO of Unite Memphis. “Our city has an incredibly rich and complex story. This event creates a space where we can walk and run side by side, acknowledging that story while building toward a future rooted in shared hope.”
This year’s race will take place on the grounds of the National Civil Rights Museum, one of the nation’s most iconic landmarks for civil rights history. Thanks to a partnership with Much Required, the foundation of NBA star Jaren Jackson Jr., all race participants and the general public will be offered free admission to the museum following the event.
“Unite Memphis reflects the values we stand for,” said Dr. Russ Wigginton, President of the National Civil Rights Museum. “It’s about leading with hope, walking in love, and showing that unity isn’t just possible—it’s powerful.”
A Local Solution to National Challenges
At a time when divisions are increasingly visible in communities across the U.S., Memphis is working to chart a different course—one that acknowledges challenges while prioritizing local investment, education, and relationship-building.
A portion of the proceeds from the Unite Memphis 5K will support nonprofits working on the front lines of youth education and leadership development, including:
- Peer Power – Providing high-quality tutoring and mentoring for Memphis youth
- Leadership Empowerment Center – Addressing academic, spiritual, and social needs of underserved students
- National Civil Rights Museum – Preserving history and advancing education around civil rights and social justice
The event is presented by Thrivent, which has served as the presenting sponsor since the event’s inception. Memphis Brand, the organization behind the city’s civic pride platform We Are Memphis, also joins this year as the official civic partner, amplifying the message through storytelling, community campaigns, and public engagement.
Youth-Focused Outreach
As part of a renewed focus on youth engagement, the event is offering a special opportunity for students: The first 100 college students to register using the promo code NEXTGENUNITE and a valid .edu email address can participate for just $10—a 75% discount from the regular rate.
“It’s essential that the next generation sees themselves as part of this vision for unity,” said Conlee. “This race is a doorway into something bigger.”
Event Details:
- When: Monday, September 1, 2025
- Where: National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis, TN
- Time: Event starts at 9:01 AM; Race begins at 9:30 AM
- Extras: Family-friendly environment, post-race food, music, and community celebration
- Registration: unitememphis.raceroster.com
Memphis as a Model for Civic Unity
While no city is without its challenges, Memphis continues to emerge as a place where bold ideas are being tested—and community-driven change is taking root. From civic pride campaigns to youth leadership programs and inclusive cultural events like Unite Memphis, the city is setting an example for how communities can come together, heal divides, and celebrate shared humanity.
On September 1, Memphis won’t just be running. It’ll be leading. One step at a time.
![The countdown is ON, Memphis! We’re officially 30 days out from the @unitememphis 5K + 1-Mile Walk/Run—and this year, we’re stepping into unity on 901 Day 🙌🏽
📍 Monday, September 1 | National Civil Rights Museum
🕘 Start time: 9:01AM
🎶 Food, music & fun to follow
Whether you’re walking or running, this isn’t just a race—it’s a movement. And there’s no better time to join in than now. 👟✨
🎓 COLLEGE STUDENTS: Be one of the first 100 to register using your .edu email with promo code NEXTGENUNITE and your ticket is just $10 (that’s a $32 savings 👀). Limit 2 per person, so tell a friend!
Let’s walk. Let’s run.
Let’s #UniteMemphis 💛
🔗 [link in bio]](https://wearememphis.com/wp-content/uploads/sb-instagram-feed-images/526805187_18335272954206022_6056852028660485499_nfull.webp)
