Martin Luther King Day

        Martin Luther King Day has been a federal holiday that celebrates his birthday since 1983, and it’s been observed since 1986. It’s always the third Monday in January, although his actual birthday is January 15^th. It honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s achievements, as he had a major impact on Civil Rights for the African American community within the United States.

He pushed to stop racial segregation, and to get equal rights for African Americans. Eventually he achieved his goals, as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibited discrimination in all public areas, facilities, and employment. It was also his influence that brought upon the Voting Rights Act of 1965. This allowed African Americans to get around barriers that were set by state and local levels and allowed them to exercise their right to vote. Dr. King earned the Nobel Prize for Peace, on account of his peaceful protesting against the discrimination in the US.

MLK was assassinated a few years later in 1968. Dr. King definitely brought upon changes, but we’re still far from perfect. There have been many unfortunate deaths of African Americans that could have been prevented. Sadly, we can’t say African American civilians being shot is a thing of the past. This is still happening to this day; we had more than our fair share in 2020.

                Usual celebrations of this holiday focus on marches and parades, along with speeches given by political and civil rights leaders. Houston’s ‘Original’ MLK Parade is going to be a virtual one this year, and you can watch it here, January 18^th at 10AM.   

 Another way people celebrate, is by volunteering and helping those in need. If you are interested in learning about volunteering this MLK day and beyond you can sign up to volunteer for numerous organizations here.

Have a Happy Martin Luther King Day, and Stay Safe!

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