Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was many things, a father, a preacher,a humanitarian, a Nobel Peace prize laureate and above all a man who inspired great change. King was the leader of the American Civil Rights Movement, and strove to create a nonviolent world where people are accepted for who they are, regardless of the color of their skin. To celebrate the legacy of this legendary man, below are three ways to mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 20.
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“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”
On August 28, 1963 on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, King delivered one of the most powerful speeches of the twentieth century. With over 250,000 people in attendance, King shared his dream of a society where people received fair and unbiased treatment. His compelling words stand as a reminder of the constant work needed to ensure equal opportunity to this day.
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Martin Luther King Jr. was a prolific writer - from his public speeches to his church sermons. He touched on many subjects that were close to his heart and guided the way he lived his life. Dive into a collection of some of his most memorable quotes that reflect upon peace, love and brotherhood.
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Each year on the third Monday of January, Dr. King is honored throughout the United States with a federal holiday marking his birthday. But instead of a day off work or school, Congress has designated MLK Day as one of national service. Spearheaded by US President Barack Obama, MLK Day of Service is an opportunity for people to come together and volunteer in their communities. For those in the US, check out volunteering opportunities in your community and for those abroad, make sure to treat perform a good deed in the spirit of Dr. King!