MLK Day is a federal holiday that many take advantage of to get away from school and work. Some may go on a short road trip, go to an amusement park, or even stay at home and do nothing. However, as this holiday nears, it is necessary we recognize the importance and significance of the holiday’s namesake, Martin Luther King Jr. 

Martin Luther King Jr. was a social rights activist and was very prevalent in the American Civil rights movement of the 1950’s-60’s.  He strived for equality among all people no matter their skin color and stayed true to his cause while gaining the support of hundreds of other people despite the hate and resentment he received.  

Martin Luther King Jr., an African American himself, had first-hand experience with discrimination and segregation all throughout his life, especially in the white Southern United States. In fact, the event that urged him to speak out was the contrast in coexistence between the North and South. In the North, races peacefully existed together while the South had very strong racial tensions. Martin Luther King Jr. fought against these discriminatory policies through peaceful means and even created the SCLC, or the Southern Christian Leader Conference, in order to plan protests, one of his most famous being the March on Washington. 

Martin Luther King Jr. worked hard in honor of his cause no matter the consequences he faced from his opponents. He even received a Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for his activist efforts and accomplishments. Unfortunately, he was assassinated in 1968 because of his protests and ideals. 

Martin Luther King Jr is one of the most powerful symbols of equality of our time. His efforts, speeches and ability to stand his ground and stay true to his cause and yet remain peaceful in the process makes him a U.S. hero and an idol for all. In his words, “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”