On the third Monday of January we celebrate the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  King is remembered and honored for his work as a spokesman for nonviolent activism in the civil rights movement towards ending discrimination towards African Americans.  King is best know for his “I have a dream” speech, where he passionately declared his wishes for the future in America – hoping for a land where his children would not be persecuted and would enjoy equal rights as full citizens of our great nation.

 

Shortly after King was assassinated in 1968 a campaign was begun to create a national holiday in honor of his memory.  The holiday was officially signed into law by Ronald Reagan 15 years later in 1983.  It was first observed on January 20, 1986.  It wasn’t until 2000, however, that all 50 states officially observed the holiday.

 

We hope today you have a happy and safe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day!

 

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