Today, we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This holiday gives us an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments, trials, and tribulations of the Civil Rights Movement, which lasted from the 1950s to the 1960s. It’s also important during this time to reflect.
Martin Luther King Jr., or MLK, is one of the most well-known Civil Rights leaders and human rights activists. He not only contributed to people's spiritual lives, but he also gave people practical aid in times of need and distress.
MLK is best known for moments such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and his “I Have a Dream” speech. For all his hard work and contributions, he won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, shortly before his passing on April 4, 1968. MLK Day became a national holiday in 1983, and all states made it a state government holiday by 2000.
There are many ways you can commemorate MLK’s life and work. Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King Kr.’s wife, said, “The greatest birthday gift my husband could receive is if people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds celebrated the holiday by performing individual acts of kindness through service to others.”
Americans are encouraged to honor Dr. King’s life and service by serving others and their communities. If you are looking for a service opportunity to celebrate this holiday, you can find more information at AmeriCorps, the federal agency that works for community service and volunteerism, or by reaching out directly to an organization, school, church, or non-profit in your area.
Continue to spread love and kindness today and always. The world definitely needs more of it. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
If you’re interested in learning more about MLK, his life, and legacy, watch this short video.
Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day!
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