The Utah Martin Luther King, Jr. Human Rights Commission was created by an executive order of Governor Gary R. Herbert on January 12, 2012 to promote education and awareness of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s ideals of diversity, equality and human rights for all by encouraging appropriate ceremonies and activities honoring the holiday that occurs on the third Monday of January each year; providing advice and assistance to government and private organizations on the observance of this federal holiday; coordinating efforts with all citizens of diverse backgrounds and with private organizations on the observance of the holiday; working diligently to promote education and awareness throughout the State of Utah on the principles of nonviolence and respect of human rights for all; facilitating workshops and training in human rights to be utilized by the public and private sectors and school systems; developing a library of applicable data and resource materials.; and seekingto involve all sectors, private and public, in a conscious effort to recognize, resolve, and resist violence and racism.

The MLK Human Rights Commission is chaired by Lieutenant Governor Greg Bell and composed of members each appointed to a two-year term by the Lt. Governor. The Commission meets every other month.