Our offices are open on MLK Day!

On the third Monday of every January, Americans observe the only federally recognized holiday celebrating the birth, life, and legacy of one man, a civil rights activist, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Though assassinated in 1968, the works and impact of Dr. King live on. His actions through non-violent, peaceful protests including boycotts and rallies have paved the way for not only equal rights but also for future leaders and social activists.

King, frequently known for his powerful speeches confronting racial inequality, knew the strength of resistance through non-violence and the impact of organized civil disobedience.

As an educated, well-versed pastor, King became nationally recognized at the age of 26, spearheading the Montgomery Bus Boycotts, credited as the earliest mass civil rights protest.

He continued his pastoral work, set up and led multiple civil rights groups, traveled to meet other leaders and activists, organized radical change, and instilled a philosophy that “Not one hair of one head of one person should be harmed.” He taught that racial inequality was linked to both economic injustice and the poverty gap and campaigned for fundamental change. He taught that creating change needs to be revolutionary, not reactionary.

While he is known for his “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” his March on Washington, and the “I Have a Dream” Speech, King worked for over 10 years, giving more than 2,500 speeches. His many teachings live on including his infamous six principles and six steps of nonviolence.

King famously said, “I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality… I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word.”

His continued and persistent leadership brought groundbreaking national legislation to the civil rights movement. Ultimately, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for his life work at 35 years old.

Since the holiday’s inception, his legacy, which was cut short, lives on today as a national day of service, encouraging community development, activism, and the power of one person.  We hope that you find time to honor King’s lasting work and sacrifices as he said, “Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.”