Martin Luther King Jr Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK Jr.) is a national holiday that was established in 1986. This holiday is held in honor each January 15th or around that time on the third Monday in January of Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. King was a strong social activist who fought for equality among the races, workers rights and protested against the Vietnam War. The Reverend was assassinated in 1968 and on his death a bill was introduced in congress to make King’s birthday a national holiday. However the holiday wasn’t officially recognized until the eighties.

Many teachers look to holidays such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day as an educational opportunity. This holiday offers insights into social studies, history, racial equality, and other important cultural elements for young student’s minds. As a parent you may happen to hear your child talking about the stuff the kids learned in class about Martin Luther King and Black History Month. You can take this opportunity to further enhance your kid’s educational experience by taking part in the holiday. Lots of communities organize a candlelit march in memory of the Million Man March and other social protests that King organized in his lifetime. Take your kids to one and participate in the holiday.

If it seems a little too cold out for a march or you can’t find one in the community try holding a small MLK Jr. Day party in the home. You can watch movies about the Reverend some are documentaries and there are also movies with plots. There are plenty of party supplies with Martin Luther King Jr. Day themes on them. Pick up some paper plates, napkins, tablecloths and other paper supplies with the MLK Jr. theme and treat your kids to a snack or two and to some educational fun.