Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. ~ A National Holiday

posted January 15, 2024 - 9:11am

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is observed annually on the third Monday in January. Today we pause to commemorate the life and work of Dr. King, a Baptist minister and prominent leader in the American Civil Rights Movement. People are encouraged to use the day to "REFLECT" on the principles of racial equality and nonviolent social change.

Dr. King promoted the use of nonviolent means to bring an end to racial segregation in the United States. In 1964 he was awarded the Nobel Prize for peace for his efforts. Dr. King was assassinated in 1968 in Memphis, TN.

Legislation making Martin Luther King, Jr. Day a federal holiday was passed in 1983. The first National Observance took place in 1986.

Famous Quotes:

Out of the mountains of despair a stone of hope.
I was a drum major for justice, peace and righteousness.
We shall overcome because the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.
Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.
Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.
I have the audacity to believe that peoples everywhere have three meals a day for their babies, education and culture for their minds, and dignity, equality and freedom for their spirits.
The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenges and controversy.
True peace is not merely the absence of tention; it is the presence of justice.

City/County Celebrations

The 43rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute and Ceremony taking place at the Capitol Rotunda on Monday at noon.

39th Annual City/County MLK Day Observance

Welcoming Terrence Roberts, one of the "Little Rock Nine"

Monday, January 15 | Overture Center Capitol Theater | FREE

5:15 PM Freedom Songs, 6:00 PM Observance

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Coalition of Madison & Dane County is delighted to announce the distinguished lineup for the 39th Annual Madison-Dane County observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. This year's event will be graced by Dr. Terrence Roberts, an esteemed figure renowned for his pivotal role as one of the "Little Rock Nine." Roberts, who experienced the challenges of segregation in his early education, made history in 1957 by volunteering to desegregate Little Rock Central High School. His courageous efforts faced numerous obstacles, including the opposition of the Arkansas National Guard and hostile crowds of up to 1,000 people. It wasn't until President Dwight Eisenhower federalized the Arkansas National Guard and deployed members of the 101st Airborne Division that the students could safely attend school.

Despite the adversity, Roberts pursued a successful academic career, ultimately earning a PhD. Alongside his fellow Little Rock Nine members, he was honored with the Congressional Gold Medal by President Bill Clinton. Roberts' inspiring journey, documented in books and movies, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of learning from our history and dedicating ourselves to ongoing progress.