Martin Luther King Jr. is an important American civil rights leader who is well-known for his campaigns and “I have a dream” speech. (Watch the speech on YouTube here).
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday to honor his life. Martin Luther King Jr. Day originally began with a campaign for his birthday to become a holiday to celebrate his accomplishment. It is held on the third Monday of January every year.
Here is a schedule of special events to honor this civil rights leader and to give local residents the opportunity to reach out to help those in need.
EVENTS IN DC
Martin Luther King Memorial
Washington DC
This weekend is a great time to visit the Memorial. National Park Service Rangers discuss King’s role in the Civil Rights movement daily. The National Park Service will host a wreathlaying service on January 19, 2015, 8-9 a.m. in observance of the birthday-anniversary for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For the detailed information, go to: http://dc.about.com/od/monuments/a/KingMemorial.htm
2015 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service
across the country
Join a community service organization or create your own event to serve the DC community and make a difference. For the detailed information, go to: http://dc.about.com/od/specialevents/a/MLKServiceDay.htm
Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
and Milwaukee Place SE
Washington DC.
The Anacostia parade/peacewalk includes the Ballou Marching Band and representatives from the area’s Asian, Bolivian, Jamaican and African American communities. For the detailed information, go to: http://mlkholidaydc.org/
Washington National Cathedral
Washington, DC.
The Cathedral will host a celebration to honor the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and continue his vision through music and poetry presented by the Cathedral and DC’s performing arts community. For the detailed information, go to: http://dc.about.com/od/touristattractions/a/NationalCathedr.htm
“Let Freedom Ring”
The Kennedy Center and Georgetown University host a musical celebration featuring the Let Freedom Ring Choir and other special guests honoring Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy in a free Millennium Stage concert. Tickets are required and will be distributed the day of the event in front of the Concert Hall beginning at 5 p.m. The 2015 concert features nine-time Grammy Award® -winning singer and actress Natalie Cole.
