| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | |
|---|---|
| Observed by | United States |
| Type | Federal holiday |
| Date | Third Monday in January |
| Scheduling | Varies (third Monday) |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Celebrates | The life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. |
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (also known as MLK Day) is a federal holiday in the United States observed on the third Monday of January each year. It honors the life, leadership, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a pivotal figure in the American civil rights movement.
History
Dr. King advocated for nonviolent resistance, racial equality, and justice. He is best remembered for leading the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and delivering his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.
He was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee.
After years of activism:
- 1983 – President Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into law
- 1986 – First nationally observed MLK Day
- 2000 – All 50 states officially recognized the holiday
Meaning and Observance
The holiday celebrates:
- Dr. King’s fight for civil rights
- Nonviolence and peaceful protest
- The ongoing struggle for racial and social equality
Many Americans honor the day by:
- Attending memorial services or marches
- Participating in community service and volunteer work
- Reflecting on Dr. King's speeches and writings
The “Day of Service”
MLK Day is promoted as a “Day On, Not a Day Off”, encouraging citizens to engage in community betterment and social action.
Notable Locations
- Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park – Atlanta, Georgia
- Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial – Washington, D.C.
- Ebenezer Baptist Church – Dr. King’s home church in Atlanta
Fun Facts
- Dr. King was the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize at age 35
- He is the only American honored with a national holiday for a private citizen
- Many schools and government offices are closed in observance