January 09, 2023
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that." — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day commemorates the life and legacy of a civil rights leader dedicated to fighting for racial justice and equality. Dr. King's birthday is celebrated on the third Monday in January as a national day of service to recognize his legacy as a civil rights advocate. The Baptist minister and social activist led the civil rights movement in the United States from the mid-1950s until his death by assassination in 1968.
- Volunteer in your local or nearby community. The AmeriCorps Volunteer Search provides a comprehensive database of all registered MLK Day volunteer opportunities in your area.
- Find ways to volunteer or support the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee, or get involved with your local historical society.
- Deliver meals and donate food and clothing to those in need, including the homeless and the elderly.
- Volunteer to transcribe historical documents through the Smithsonian Digital Volunteer program. The projects range from Black history and women's suffrage to the personal letters and journals of historical figures. The digital transcriptions are aimed to make the documents more widely available for the public.
- Join and support organizations that fight against racial injustices, such as the Equal Justice Initiative or the National Urban League. Help build awareness, raise funds and learn more about the work programs and organizations are doing to empower Black communities.
- Support Black-owned businesses. Help contribute to entrepreneurial opportunities and economic prosperity by supporting a Black business in your area or online.
- Mentor young children. Become a literacy volunteer to tutor children at your local library or at an after school program.
- Celebrate Black Music Month
- 10 Series With Black Creators to Watch for Juneteenth
- The Best Content for Kids to Celebrate Black History Month
Did you know?
Music legend Stevie Wonder wrote, recorded and produced the 1980 song, "Happy Birthday," as part of the successful campaign to have Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday declared a federal holiday.
