El Rito Media

The first month of the year is special for a number of reasons, including the opportunity for a fresh start, as millions of people make New Year’s resolutions in an effort to turn the page on the previous year.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is nestled in the middle of January and is another day of contemplation and celebration. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was an American Baptist minister, activist, Nobel Peace Prize winner, and one of the most prominent leaders of the civil rights movement. His leadership was fundamental throughout the mid-1950s until his assassination in 1968. King promoted nonviolent tactics that included the March on Washington in 1963.

The third Monday of January (Jan. 20 this year) is widely celebrated as Martin Luther King Jr. Day (or MLK Day) and is a federal holiday to honor the life and legacy of this great man. The day presents an opportunity to celebrate and honor Dr. King in notable ways.

Here are some of the many ways to celebrate Dr. King and serve in his name.

• Give what you can. Donate money or goods to a nearby charitable organization. This can include donating to a food pantry or dropping off clothing at a homeless shelter.

• Donate time. Dr. King’s legacy is a testament to cooperation. When people work together and support one another, the world becomes a better place for future generations. Volunteering time at a local nonprofit organization is a start.

• Watch the “I Have a Dream” speech. Dr. King was a skilled orator, and this speech is about 17 minutes long. Many people know of this speech but may not have listened to it in its entirety, nor have fully absorbed its message. MLK Day is an ideal time to listen to the speech from start to finish.

• Promote equality initiatives. Racism, segregation and inequality remain a problem even today. Use MLK Day as a catalyst for change aimed at promoting equality among all people.

• Spearhead mixers and other friendly socials. Dr. King espoused a message of kindness and respect for others. By bringing people together from different backgrounds, individuals can learn that they likely have more in common than they realize. Host special social gatherings that can take place on or around MLK Day.

• Plant a tree or another enduring symbol. A Greek proverb says, “A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they shall never sit.” It means that planting trees represents actions that will benefit future generations, even if the person planting them will not live long enough to reap the benefits. Dr. King facilitated greater racial harmony and peace even though he was not able to enjoy it more fully. Planting a tree in his name will benefit future generations.

• Learn more about Dr. King. Visit a cultural center that is offering a special MLK Day exhibit; otherwise, read biographies or watch a movie about his life and work.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a celebration of a man who did great things that continue to benefit generations of people who came after him.