Table of Contents
The Journey to Establish Martin Luther King Jr. Day
The idea of Martin Luther King Jr. Day began shortly after his assassination in 1968. U.S. Democratic Rep. John Conyers proposed legislation to recognize King, but it faced significant opposition. King was a polarizing figure, and many Americans did not trust him or thought he was too radical. Despite the challenges, King’s widow, Coretta Scott King, and supporters continued to lobby for the holiday.
Legislative Struggles and Cultural Shifts
For 15 years, the Congressional Black Caucus, founded by Conyers, tried to bring the legislation up for a vote. The social and cultural climate in the U.S. began to shift in the 1980s, with the public reflecting on racial progress and regretting the Vietnam War. In 1983, legislation for Martin Luther King Jr. Day cleared Congress, and President Ronald Reagan signed it into law.
State-Level Resistance and Activism
Despite Reagan’s signing, it took 17 more years for all 50 states to observe the holiday. Most resistance came from the South, with Arizona being a notable example. Activists, including Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., led protests and boycotts, which eventually led to Arizona reinstating the holiday in 1992. South Carolina was the final holdout until 2000.
A Day of Service and Reflection
Martin Luther King Jr. Day has grown in its 42 years to become a day of service and reflection. 1994 President Bill Clinton signed legislation making it a National Day of Service. Major cities and suburbs host various service projects, including community clean-ups and food packing. King’s daughter, the Rev. Bernice King, emphasizes embracing the spirit of nonviolence and doing good work year-round.
Continuing King’s Legacy
The holiday serves as a reminder of King’s ideals and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. People are encouraged to read King’s writings, such as his “Letter from the Birmingham Jail,” and to continue the conversation about his legacy throughout the year. The holiday symbolizes liberty and justice for all, and moving from symbol to substance is essential.
