Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Martin Luther King Day was observed on January 20th this year. This holiday honors the legacy and work of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. The holiday was first signed into law by President Reagen in 1983 and was first observed three years later in January of 1986, making 2025 the 39th celebration of MLK Day. Because King's birthday was January 15th, MLK Day is always observed on the third Monday of January. MLK Day is also a National Day of Service. Many presidents and other government officials have volunteered and done community service on MLK Day. There are many service events, but the largest one is The Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Day of Service. This event helped thousands of people and promotes year round community service. MLK Day is not only celebrated by American citizens, but also around the world. For example, MLK Day is observed by the Japanese city of Hiroshima, commemorated by the Canadian cities of Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, and many tributes to King are held in the Netherlands. The most important part about MLK Day is the spreading of King’s message of peace, equality and love for all. Many Americans do this through music, film and social media. It is important to honor King, his work and his message and continue to spread his legacy that everyone deserves to be treated with respect. 

by Emma McLaughlin