Do you have a hero? Someone you look up to or admire? Someone who is your role model? For many people across the world, Martin Luther King Jr is just such a man. The way he walked on Washington, how he used words instead of fists to try and solve the problems of his day and age.
There are some that compare what he did to Gandhi in using the persistent yet peaceful rebellion against the oppression of his people. Martin Luther King Jr Day is the day to celebrate all that he has done for the African American people and the world.
History of Martin Luther King Day
Martin Luther King Jr Day was created by President Reagan in 1983, at least officially. The day of his assassination had remained an important part of American culture since it occurred in 1968. On Martin Luther King Jr Day people gather to celebrate the work he did and the people he elevated through steady, peaceful protests and activism.
The struggles he fought to eliminate were still present in 1983, made evident by the fact that it took until 2000 until it was officially recognized and practiced by every state in the union, in spite of being a presidentially recognized holiday.
Movements are still in motion to elevate Martin Luther King Jr Day to a federal holiday, which would mandate that government offices would close down in recognition of the lengths he went to and the life he gave to promote true equality and freedom. Arguments against this are primarily based on the fact that he never officially held any public office, which is usually a requirement for such recognition.
How to celebrate Martin Luther King Day
Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr Day is best done by continuing the work of the man himself, performing acts of service to your community, your neighbors, and your nation. Throughout this holiday you should attempt to attend events being held at local parks and community centers, and help elevate your awareness regarding equality activism.
Attend a parade and stand side by side with those that are still fighting for true equality today, or visit a museum and learn more about what he accomplished in his life firsthand. If you’re a bookworm, there are hundreds of books about Martin Luther King Jr and what he set out to do, and how his legacy still affects us today.
