| 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