Students enjoy their Monday off yet fail to recognize the meaning of this day that commemorates doctor Martin Luther king.
On Aug. 2, 1983 the U.S. house of representatives passed a bill creating a legal public holiday in honor of the Reverend Martin Luther King Junior.
Senior Sydney Carlier said, “I honestly had no idea it was a holiday until my friend told me on Sunday that it was a three day weekend. I work at a restaurant so I spent the holiday working.”
Everyone has the ability to commemorate MLK differently on this holiday, but it is important that his work doesn’t go without recognition.
According to Google, Martin Luther King Day is a federal holiday held on the third Monday of January. It celebrates the life achievements of Martin Luther King Jr., an influential American civil rights leader.
Sophomore Drew Lehr said, “My family and I attended a church service where the pastor talked about equality and how far America has come as a result of MLK’s work.”
Whether through religion or community outreach, many students took time out of their day in remembrance.
In Columbia, South Carolina, over 400 University of South Carolina students spent their MLK Day giving back to the community by cutting back overgrown vines and trees.
This day is seen as a day to promote equal rights for all Americans no matter their racial or economic background, and one should not forget its importance to this country.
Senior Erica Aldenese said, “I don’t see Martin Luther King day as a day of celebration, but more importantly a day of remembrance where one can step back from their daily lives and take a moment to recognize all this man did for equality.”
