Martin Luther King, Jr Day

Photo by Jennifer, All rights reserved.

The civil rights movement was a time when many people worked together to end racial discrimination and unfair treatment in the United States (USCIS 128:112). They wanted everyone to have the same rights and opportunities, no matter their race or skin color. 

One of the most important leaders of this movement was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  He is famous for fighting for civil rights and for working for equality for all Americans. He gave powerful speeches and led peaceful protests to bring change. Dr. King believed that people should not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character, and his ideas helped make the country more fair and just (USCIS 128:113).

Americans celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a federal hoiday on the third Monday in January (USCIS 128:126). People celebrate with marches, parades, concerts, speeches, and school programs. The day is also a National Day of Service, called “a day on, not a day off,” which means people are encouraged to volunteer and help their community. Many people support Black- and minority-owned businesses and talk with their families about equality. These activities honor Dr. King’s dream of a fair and caring “beloved community” and his work for civil rights, economic justice, and peace.

Learn more about his life and works at the U.S. Citizenship Resources for Martin Luther King, Jr Day page.