Americans Honor Martin Luther King, Jr.

Millions of people across the country will remember slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King on January 21.

Dr. King's birthday is actually January 15; but now most national holidays are celebrated on the Monday nearest to the actual date to provide a long weekend. Dr. King was most remembered for his "I have a dream" speech.

"We've made great progress over the last 50 years," said Julian Bond, national chairman of the NAACP. "Progress has always been stop-and-start, and sometimes backup. We're in a holding pattern right now."

"For a big portion of the African American population, there's not better education," said David Bositis, an analyst of black issues for the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies. "There have been some gains made, but it's uneven.

Martin Luther King Day was established by Congress in 1986. Participation in this national holiday was enhanced by additional legislation passed in 1994 that established the day as one of service. In many places, people will help with projects aimed to improve the community and help the needy. All 50 states have gradually recognized the King holiday.

Assign students to learn more about the life and work of Dr. King, and why he was assassinated for that work. Students should write a report of 100-150 words that uses at least three articles and addresses the following essential questions for critical thinking:

• How did Dr. King's family and education prepare him for his mission on civil rights?
  
  
• What was Dr. King's strategy to promote equality and why did he use that strategy?
  
  
• What is the most important thing that Dr. King accomplished -- why do you believe that?
  
  
• What are some of the service activities that students perform in the spirit of the holiday?

Pathfinder: Select Subject Headings search option > Type "Martin Luther King" > Click Search > Select King, Martin Luther, Jr. (1929-1968)

Consider utilizing our fresh ProQuest models for student PowerPoint (engaging issues or essential questions) and written reports.