By Julia Train
On the third Monday of January each year, the country observes Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This year, the federal holiday that recognizes his Jan. 15 birthday falls on Monday, Jan. 20.
In the mid-1950s, King spearheaded the movement to end segregation and combat prejudice in the United States through nonviolent protest.
King is best known for his leadership in organizing protests, including the 1963 March on Washington, where he delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. In 1964, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Tragically, King was assassinated in 1968, but his legacy continues to inspire movements for social justice and equality worldwide.
In 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed a bill establishing a federal holiday in honor of King’s dedication to equal rights and justice for all. Martin Luther King Jr. Day was first observed on Jan. 20, 1986. By January 2000, it was officially recognized in all 50 states.
A fun fact
According to National Geographic, although King’s name is known worldwide, many don’t realize that he was born Michael King, Jr.
His father, Michael King Sr., was a pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. During a trip to Germany, he was deeply inspired by the legacy of Martin Luther, the leader of the Protestant Reformation. As a result, he not only changed his own name but also decided to rename his five-year-old son, Michael, after the famous reformer.
Ways you can observe the holiday locally
Ocean City will celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through words, song and dance on Saturday, Jan. 18 at noon at the Ocean City Tabernacle. The ceremony will be followed by a complimentary soul food buffet luncheon at the Tabernacle.
The Rev. Paul C. Jerkins, Cathy DiMarco and the Ocean City Ecumenical Council Food Cupboard will be honored with Martin Luther King Community Service Awards, which annually recognize volunteer activity and service to the Ocean City community.
Participate in a Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 20, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties (JFS) Margate office. Volunteers can assist with several community projects, including assembling food pantry bags, creating cards for meal deliveries, collecting and assembling toiletry kits, revitalizing therapy toys for children and packing on-the-go bags for those unable to prepare meals.
To volunteer, RSVP to Julia Tracy, JFS’ Associate Director of Marketing & Events, at jtracy@jfsatlantic.org.
The City of Atlantic City has several events happening during the weekend: an annual read-in at the library, a march and a day of service.
The Atlantic City Free Public Library is holding its annual Dr. King Read-In and Luncheon on Saturday, Jan. 18 at the Noyes Arts Garage from 2 – 4 p.m. At this free event, guests will get to read speeches by Dr. King and enjoy a catered lunch.
On Monday, Jan. 20, the community will march from MLK School Complex to the Civil Rights Garden at 10 a.m. The march is hosted by the City of Atlantic City, NAACP Atlantic City Branch, Bridge of Faith and Stockton University.
All Stockton University campuses – including the Atlantic City campus – will hold a Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 20, for the 21st year.
Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson will present the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Spirit Award on Jan. 21 at 4 p.m. to Charles and Augusta Garrett of Atlantic City. The award is given to outstanding residents who exemplify King’s principles through their involvement in the community and their efforts to improve the lives of their fellow citizens. It will be presented at the Board of County Commissioners meeting at 201 S. Shore Road, Northfield.
