Have you ever wondered why we have MLK Jr. Day off of school? We learn who Martin Luther King Jr. was in school and all of the influential things he has done. But why does this cause us to have school off?
It turns out that Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday is an official day of service and also celebrates the civil right leader’s life and legacy. On this holiday we are encouraged to go out and serve the community.
“MLK Day was designated as a national day of service in which all Americans are encouraged to volunteer to improve their communities,” according to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.
This part of the holiday is often overlooked. MLK Jr. was an amazing leader and advocate for civil rights and that should not be forgotten. However, we should hear more about how we can use this holiday for the community. Community members should provide ways to serve, pick up trash, help those in need, and more on this holiday, so that it is more than just a day off.
“MLK was amazing, no doubt,” stated CC Cruz Cliftion, “but I have never been told that we are supposed to serve the community during this time off.”
We should never forget all that Martin Luther King Jr. did for our country. He was an incredibly impactful leader that stood up for civil rights in a peaceful way. We can honor all of what he did by serving our communities on this day.
“Visit, donate to,” stated Teach For America ,”or volunteer at a civil rights organization near you.”
Supporting the civil rights movement and serving the community in other ways can not only make a difference, but also honor MLK’s legacy.
