Martin Luther King Jr. was a very well known civil rights activist in the United States. Younger generations across the country learn about him in history class, practice celebrating his legacy and beliefs. His powerful speeches and dedication to equality has left a long lasting legacy on society which is important to recognize through Martin Luther King Day.
January 15, 2024 is the upcoming date for the federal holiday. This day marks the King’s birthday and was established in order to honor the hope he brought to America in a time of discrimination.
Many Americans remember King for his famous “I Have A Dream” speech. This address outlines the history of racial discrimination and promises freedom for the future to come. His movements and work extends back into the early 1950s.
In December of 1955, his leadership of the American civil rights movement began. When Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat for a white citizen, not only did King participate in the one-day boycott but he actually formed the Montgomery Improvement Association and became the president of it.
Later on King’s success is shown by being awarded chairman of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. King then moved on to write books, meet politicians, participate in protests, and give many successful speeches.
Many people know why we are celebrating this national holiday but don’t truly understand his background and how he has changed the way all citizens live. Austin Cesare, AP Government and AP United States History teacher at Foran High School, shares how he celebrates Martin Luther King Day in his classes.
“I teach both his “I Have a Dream” speech at the March on Washington and also his “Letter from Birmingham Jail” in my classes. They are so important for students to learn about. We recognize his tremendous contributions each year.”
Acknowledging what King has done for the country in a classroom setting can help keep his accomplishments alive and pass on to future generations.
Another history teacher at Foran, Brian Dooling, shares how he celebrates the day with his classes. “Usually Martin Luther King Day falls around midterms so we spend a little bit of time right before midterms talking about his legacy and what he contributed to US History and usually I show some of his speeches to the class.”
Mr. Dooling shares that it can be sometimes difficult to celebrate the day because of where it falls in the school schedule but he always carves time out to share the importance of the day and what King has done for our country.
According to ashevillenc.gov, Martin Luther King Day is important in order to understand his powerful message of racial equality.
“Martin Luther King Jr. fought for the rights and dignity of all people, and his legacy inspires us to continue working towards a more just and equitable world. By honoring his memory and ideals on this day, we can reaffirm our commitment to creating a better future for all.”
Martin Luther King Jr. is celebrated by millions around the nation on this day. He will continue to affect many more Americans for years to come.
