Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday
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Overview
Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., a pivotal leader in the Civil Rights Movement. It celebrates his life, achievements, and legacy of advocating for civil rights through nonviolence and civil disobedience, striving for racial equality and justice.
Observed each year on January 15, Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.
Origin and story
Martin Luther King Jr. was born on January 15, 1929, but the federal holiday is observed on the third Monday of January each year.
The idea for the holiday was initially promoted by the Congressional Black Caucus and supported by labor unions in the 1970s, eventually signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983.
Quick facts
- DateJanuary 15
- TypeCultural / community observance
- Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams
Also on this date
Ways to observe
- Read speeches or writings by Dr. King.
- Learn about the civil rights movement.
- Watch documentaries or educational programs.
- Think about themes of justice and equality.
- Discuss nonviolence and civic responsibility.
- Encourage respectful dialogue and understanding.
- Volunteer locally as a day on, not a day off.
- Support community organizations.
- Perform acts of kindness.
Fun facts
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day is the only U.S. federal holiday designated as a national day of service.
Sources and attribution
Martin Luther King Jr. Papers Project (Stanford University)
External links may lead to third-party websites.
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FAQ
- When is Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday?
- It is observed on January 15 each year.
- What is Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday?
- Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., a pivotal leader in the Civil Rights Movement. It celebrates his life, achievements, and legacy of advocating for civil rights through nonviolence and civil disobedience, striving for racial equality and justice.
- How do people observe Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday?
- Learn about Dr. King and take part in service or reflection.
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