Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is an annual American holiday dedicated to the memory of a great public figure. It falls on the third Monday in January.

History

Martin Luther King was a public figure whose contribution can hardly be overestimated. All his life he fought for the establishment of racial equality and the complete elimination of discrimination against black people. King’s speech on August 28, 1963, titled “I Have a Dream”, became known to the whole world. In it, he expressed his main theses that he believes in the success of a nation that will get rid of stereotypes regarding skin color. Black and white people will be able to live in peace and unity, and discrimination will be completely eliminated.

Holiday Martin Luther King Jr. Day before its official approval went through a thorny path. The corresponding bill was proposed in 1979, but 5 votes were not enough to pass it. The King Center (an organization made up of people who support Martin’s policies) reached out to the public. Support has been found. Artist Stevie Wonder released the track “Happy Birthday” dedicated to King, and a corresponding petition was also created. In 1983, the President of the country signed a corresponding law on the establishment of a new holiday. The public figure’s birthday, January 15, was chosen as the date of celebration, but the date changes every year.

Interesting facts

• Martin’s speech is considered to be the pinnacle of oratory. This is not surprising. At the age of 15, the future public figure won the competition of speakers.
• From the late 1950s, King became head of the human rights organization SCLC and remained so until his death.
• King never supported violent performances. He organized marches, public performances and other peaceful actions.

How to celebrate

Study at Martin Luther King Jr. Day of the work of a public figure, listen to his public speeches. Perhaps you can organize some peaceful actions that will support racial equality. You can also chat with like-minded people on the Internet, discussing the main problems of racial equality in the modern world. Maybe it will be possible to find effective solutions.

When is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebrated in 2024?

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is observed on the third Monday in January each year.

Observations