Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

In 1979, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on making Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's birthday a national holiday. It fell short by five votes mainly because it was not customary to recognize a private citizen, someone who had never held public office, in this way.?

Legislation making Martin Luther King, Jr. Day a federal holiday was passed in 1983, and the first nationwide observance took place in 1986. Legislation for the holiday was introduced in Congress in 1968 but initially received enough opposition to block its passage. However, states and cities began honoring Dr. King's birthday, January 15, as early as 1970.

Today, as we reflect on his life, we must acknowledge the challenges we face trying to ensure we do not lose the alienable rights framed in the constitution and as we honor his legacy. We stand on the shoulders of those who lost their lives to allow us to thrive.??

He fought so we might live in a world where we are free to walk the streets without harassment, own homes, advance our education, work in an environment free from hatred, and bigotry, promote social welfare and serve our community.??

We are not limited in what we can do to advocate for social justice, equity, inclusion, equality, and belonging. No matter where you are in the world, you can do something and use your voice, ears, hands, and feet. Nothing is beyond our reach if we come together.

WE cannot be passive observers! Regardless of race, ethnicity, age, religious affiliation, gender, etc., we all must do our part. We can create a ripple in the ocean of oppression and create a wave that will become a storming sea of change that will prepare the next generation to continue moving forward.??

We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.??

What will you do today and going forward to make a difference?

Martin Luther King - I Have A Dream Speech - August 28, 1963 - YouTube