Today we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Fifteen years after Dr. King’s assassination in 1968, the King Holiday Bill signed into law in 1983 designated the third Monday annually in January a federal holiday in observance of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As shared by The King Center in Atlanta, Georgia, the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday “is a celebration of Dr. King’s immeasurable contribution to the United States, and to humankind”. The King Holiday is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service to encourage all Americans to volunteer and improve their communities. This is why we wanted to share some ways you can honor in a way that is meaningful to you Dr. King’s life and legacy on your own or with others in our communities.
How to get involved
On your own, there are many ways to engage throughout both January 16 and everyday –
- Learn more about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Speeches (list of Dr. King’s writing and speeches collections found through The King Center)
- Read Books by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story, 1958.
- Strength to Love, 1963.
- Why We Can’t Wait, 1963
- Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?, 1967
- The Trumpet of Conscience, 1968.
- Other Recommended Readings
- Glossary of nonviolence and Recommended readings from The King Center
- Recommended readings from The Martin Luther King, Jr. Research and Education Institute at Stanford University
- Volunteer with your favorite organization
In our service counties, there were many public celebrations and learning opportunities over the weekend; however, there are additional celebrations and opportunities you can take part in (please note that this isn’t an exhaustive list) –
- Calvin University and the Frauenthal Center – To Stick with Love: King’s Vision for Today’s Movement (January 16)
- Grand Valley State University – MLK Jr. Day of Service and Solidarity (January 21)
- Holland Museum – MLK Day Celebration: How Can You Change the World
- Hope College – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Leadership Summit
- Muskegon Art Museum – MLK Day Free Community Day
- United Way of the Lakeshore – MLK Day of Service
If you’re interested in volunteering throughout the year with AgeWell Services, click below for more information.
