CareNotes

Meaningful Ways to Honor Martin Luther King Jr.

Each year on the third Monday of January, we celebrate the life and legacy of civil rights leader, activist, and orator Martin Luther King Jr. in honor of his January 15th birthday. King’s historic contributions to racial justice for Black Americans and equity for all Americans are undeniable. MLK Day has come to be recognized as a day of service nationwide, so take some time to do something that honors King’s values and his revolutionary place in American history.

Below are some meaningful ways to celebrate MLK Day:

1. Get Involved in Community-Based Services – MLK embodies community service. Search MLKDay.gov. Spearheaded by AmeriCorps, the site allows you to search MLK Day virtual and in-person volunteer opportunities in your community and explore numerous other resources.
2. Discover Things About Martin Luther King Jr. You Didn’t Know – We’re familiar with the famous “I Have Dream” speech (never hurts to re-watch!), but MLK accomplished so much during his short life. As one of the most celebrated social rights activists on the planet, there still a lot to learn about one of the most influential figures of our time. Treehugger has a great list of little-known facts about this awe-inspiring icon.
3. Take a Virtual Tour of the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis – On April 4th, 1968, Martin Luther King Jr. was tragically assassinated outside the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee, sending shockwaves across the country and the world. Today, the motel serves as the site of the National Civil Rights Museum, which documents a timeline of key events in the civil rights movement and Martin Luther King Jr.’s influential role within it. The museum is hosting free virtual events in honor of MLK on Monday, January 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. PST. Register here.
4. Support Organizations That Fight for Racial Justice – In the midst of educating yourself and those around you, don’t forget to support organizations that make it their mission to fight against racial injustice. Join a protest, raise funds, and learn more about organizations that empower Black communities.
5. Support Black-Owned Businesses – You can’t have equality without equity, and Black business owners often face additional barriers to their success because of their race. For a day that is about giving back, you can also empower individuals by supporting Black businesses in your local community.
6. Watch Films About King’s Life – Start with Our Friend, Martin. Although it is an animated film, it features historical footage of King at different points in his life. Ava Duvernay’s Selma explores how King lived a life that was much more complex than the image we have been sold. Explore this list of movies, television shows and books on systemic racism.
7. Explore Virtual Exhibits. These virtual exhibitions of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture.