Mykaela Johnson
Period 1
MLK DayToday, January 18, 2016, we celebrate the 30th Martin Luther King Jr. Day. In the article I read from USA Today it says not only is the day celebrated to recognize MLK's birthday, but is also a federal holiday. The article then goes on to explain how the day became a recognized federal holiday. According to the article, Stevie wonder released his well-known Happy Birthday song in support of a national Martin Luther King holiday. Stevie Wonder also worked with King's widow, Coretta Scott King, and got six million signatures on a petition for the holiday. Finally, with the help of President Ronald Reagan, a bill was signed stating the the third Monday in January was designated for MLK Day. The holiday started in 1986.
Martin Luther King Jr. was extremely significant in the Civil Rights Movement and was known for his fierce speeches and peaceful protests. Martin Luther King Day was the first holiday of its time that recognized a national figure who was African American and not president. I think its extremely important to acknowledge and celebrate this holiday no matter what your skin color because his impact on your life and mine is greater than any of us could've accomplished alone. I am able to have friends and family of different races and not face discrimination because of his persistence. Of course, racism is still a lasting issue, but imagine how much worse it would be without MLK.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/01/16/martin-luther-king-junior-holiday-federal-monday-january-stevie-wonder/78844042/
I had never even thought about this. An extraordinary man such as himself deserves such recognition.
ReplyDeleteI had never even thought about this. An extraordinary man such as himself deserves such recognition.
ReplyDeleteMartin Luther King Jr. helped change the world into a better place and I think he really got what he deserved by having a whole day in honor of him.
ReplyDelete