Martin Luther King Jr. Day
What is the Purpose of Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time to honour the life and legacy of a leader who dedicated himself to justice, equality, and nonviolent change. A pivotal figure in the American Civil Rights Movement, Dr King tirelessly advocated for racial equality, economic justice, and peace. His influence extended beyond civil rights in the United States, inspiring global movements for human rights and social justice.
Observed annually on the third Monday in January, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is both a celebration and a call to action. It encourages us to reflect on his contributions, foster a sense of community, and uphold the values of respect, equality, and unity. In 2025, this day falls on Monday the 20th of January.
How Can You Commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
There are many meaningful ways to honour Dr King’s legacy. He strongly believed in the power of community and service, making volunteerism a fitting tribute. Consider giving back by supporting local food banks, charities, or initiatives that uplift those in need.
Education is another powerful way to commemorate this day. Expanding our understanding of Dr King’s work and the broader history of civil rights can help us draw connections between past struggles and present-day issues. While the Civil Rights Movement was rooted in the United States, its themes of justice and equality resonate worldwide, including in the UK. Societal challenges may take different forms, but they often stem from common roots.
You can deepen your knowledge through books, documentaries, museum visits, or discussions. Additionally, spreading awareness—whether online or in person—by sharing messages of love, equality, and nonviolence helps keep Dr King’s vision alive.
Online Anti-Racism Workshop, In Collaboration with Ian Bland Poetry
Show Racism the Red Card, in collaboration with Ian Bland Poetry, will be hosting an online anti-racism workshop on the day from 9:15 am. The session will explore Dr King’s legacy and provide young students with an opportunity to express their understanding through poetry.
By participating in activities like these, we continue Dr King’s mission of fostering unity, awareness, and positive change in our communities.
If you miss this opportunity, please contact nwadmin@theredcard.org to find out more about our anti-racism workshops.
See below for suggestions for further reading & links to Martin Luther King Jr. resources.
Book Suggestions:
- The Autobiography of Martin Luther King ,Jr.
- Alabama V. King: Martin Luther King Jr. and the Criminal Trial That Launched the Civil Rights Movement by Dan Abrams and Fred D. Gray
- Martin Luther King, Jr. A life by Marshall Frady
- Why we can’t wait by Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Little People, Big Dreams: Martin Luther King Jr. By Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
- Dear Martin by Nic Stone
- Martin Luther King Jr. By Laurie Calkhoven
- I am Martin Luther King, Jr by Grace Norwich
Links to Martin Luther King Jr. Resources:
- Martin Luther King, Jr., Day | Establishment, History, & Facts | Britannica
- Martin Luther King Jr. ‑ Biography, Quotes & Legacy | HISTORY
- Martin Luther King, Jr. | About Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
- I have a Dream
- Timeline of triumph
- Martin Luther King facts | National Geographic Kids
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Anti-Racism Online Workshop – Show Racism the Red Card