January 12, 2022
Find out how you can celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., in the most meaningful way.
On Aug. 28, 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his most memorable speech, “I Have a Dream," on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. It was a moment infused with hope that a nation divided by race and culture could one day come together to celebrate those differences. While there is still much left to be accomplished to ensure Dr. King's dream is realized, progress is being made.
To honor Dr. King, the third Monday in January is recognized as a federal holiday. It's important to remember that it's also meant to be a day of service. Here are a few ways you can celebrate Dr. King's legacy and honor his dream on his birthday and throughout the year.
Join a March or Event
Every year, cities across the U.S. put on educational events and celebrations to honor Martin Luther King, Jr. Search your area to find one near you. Due to the pandemic, some events may have shifted to a virtual format or may limit capacity. You don't have to go far to feel the power of the movement that still marches on over a 100 years later. Join online or tune in from home to hear inspirational speeches from Black leaders in your community.
Watch a TV Series, Documentary or Movie
TV series, movies and documentaries can help bring some of the information found in textbooks to life.
Dive into history by streaming Selma, a film about the landmark 1965 march for civil rights; Ruby Bridges, a Disney film based on a true story about a six-year-old girl who integrated her elementary school in New Orleans; and Eyes on the Prize, a landmark documentary series about the Civil Rights Movement, and its follow up, Eyes on the Prize: Hallowed Ground.
You can also search Cox Contour for a variety of shows and films on the civil rights movement, Dr. King and a number of other topics surrounding Black lives.
Support a Black-Owned Business
Take the time to support and empower individuals by frequenting Black-owned companies in your community. When you shop, dine or buy gift certificates from Black-owned businesses, you can help close the racial wealth gap and create more opportunities for people to save, grow and prosper. With support from one another, we can help make Dr. King's dream of creating a stronger and better unified nation come true.
