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 Jr. 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, believing in the success of a nation that would rid itself of stereotypes regarding skin color. Black and white people would be able to live in peace and unity, and discrimination would be completely eliminated.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day went through a thorny path before its official approval. The corresponding bill was proposed in 1979, but it fell five votes short of passing. The King Center (an organization made up of people who support King’s policies) reached out to the public and found support. 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 law establishing the new holiday. The public figure’s birthday, January 15, was chosen as the date of celebration, but the date changes every year to the third Monday in January.

Interesting facts

• Martin’s speech is considered the pinnacle of oratory. This is not surprising. At the age of 15, the future public figure won a speaking competition.
• 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 speeches, and other peaceful actions.

How to celebrate

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, study the work of this public figure and listen to his speeches. Perhaps you can organize some peaceful actions that 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 in 2025?

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

Observations