By Jemia Spence
Web Content Contributor
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK Day), Jan. 17, 2022, marks the anniversary of the federal day of service and celebrates Dr. King’s legacy and dedication to unity, justice, and peace. Dr. King dedicated his life to achieving equality for all people of color.
MLK Day is recognized as the only Federal holiday observed as a National Day of Service. His legacy helps encourage us to come together and to think of others by contributing time and talents to serving others.
In Montgomery, Alabama, in 1957, Dr. King said to his audience, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?”
We can all help answer the question by pledging to serve today in honor of Dr. King. Every college student could learn a thing or two from Dr. King’s life and legacies, such as the importance of education, the rewards that come with perseverance, and the value of serving others. These were the values and principles Dr. king believed in and wanted everyone, especially minorities, to uphold.
“You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve,” said Dr. King. “You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”
MLK Day is typically celebrated with marches, parades, and speeches by civil rights leaders and politicians. However, many individuals and organizations also contribute volunteer efforts to support the day of service. Dr. King believed that service could act as fuel to improve communities and eventually change the world.
His work is not done. Ask yourself: Can you use your talents to carry on his legacy? Whether you volunteer for a cause, help a fellow peer that is struggling in class, or stand up for what is right when no one else will. There are plenty of ways for young students to get involved and use their voices for a positive change.
“Everyone can be great because everyone can serve,” said Dr. King. Let’s celebrate MLK Day and use Dr. King’s legacy as an example to serve others in the community and continue to make service a part of our daily lives. Remember the wise words and teachings from this civil rights leader and consider how to apply them to your own life in the 21st century.
Featured Image by Jemia Spence
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