How Significant Was the First MLK Day?

The first MLK day was such a major stepping stone for the country because we were celebrating a champion of black rights and equality for all. Another reason that the first MLK day is known as such as success is because it was a long fight to get the holiday approved.

The first time the nation celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day was on January 20, 1986, 18 years after the famed activist and orator was assassinated. Therefore, as you can see, a long fight ensued in order to establish the holiday.

History Of MLK Day

Not too long after MLK was killed, John Coynes, a Democratic Representative in the United States, proposed to Congress that MLK's birthday be made into a national holiday.

However, in 1979 when the bill came into the House of Representatives, it did not make it through. The bill was short by five votes. Their reasoning as that the government could not afford the paid holiday and that there had not been these types of holidays for private citizens before. They did not want to set the precedent. Within the first attempt, the bid for a holiday honoring this hero failed.

The fight continued on however. During the Rally for Peace Conference in 1981, six million signatures were obtained in order to ask Congress to put the bill into effect. Finally, in November of 1983, Ronald Reagan signed a bill that would put his holiday into effect. The holiday was observed for the first time just over two years later.

Many of us are only familiar with MLK day being in existence. However, think back to how significant that first MLK must have been. Even today, we celebrate with joy the freedom that was fought for under MLK's name. Followers of MLK had a long battle for recognition for their leader, but they finally won.

MLK Day Events

Wherever you are, you will be able to find some event occurring on MLK day. If you cannot, you can create your own event. Take a few moments to meditate to pray and think about and give thanks for all that MLK has done for the country and for people fighting for equality. Also, anyway that you can serve others and fight for equality helps to keep the memory of MLK alive.

Here are some other events you might want to consider participating in in honor of the day.

• If you have political clout or some sort of celebrity status, consider becoming a MLK Day Ambassador of Service.
• Join a community service project. If you check your local listings, you will be able to find various opportunities that suit your needs and talents.
• Visit the "New York Voices of the Civil Rights Movement" at the Apollo Theater in New York City.
• New York University hosts an entire MLK celebration week. See how you can get involved.
• Head to the Woonsocket Celebration Planning Committee's programs hosted at the Stadium Theater and Beacon Charter School.
• Take little ones to the Providence Children's Music so that they can learn about the history and significance of MLK Day.
• Visit the Lincoln Memorial, where a reenactment of the "I Have A Dream" speech will occur.
• Go to the holiday weekend family festival at the National Museum of American History in Washington D.C. and New York City. 

So many ways exist in which you can celebrate and remember Martin Luther King Jr.