Monday is MLK Day and Inauguration Day

All federal, state and local government offices as well as banks will be closed on Monday Jan. 21 in honor of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.

The holiday marks the birthday of the famed civil rights leader. King’s actual birthday is on Jan. 15, but the third Monday of January was designated as the official holiday in 1983. 

What does Martin Luther King Jr. Day mean to you? What are you doing to commemorate King’s legacy?

Here are some options for celebrating the life and work of the civil rights leader:

Martin Luther King Jr. Day at The King Center

Events include the the Martin Luther King, Jr. Annual Commemorative Service
at Ebenezer Baptist Church on Monday morning and a march on Auburn Avenue.

Hands on Atlanta Day of Service

Hands on Atlanta is coordinating service projects across the Atlanta area in honor of Dr. King's call that "Everybody can be great...because everybody can serve." Check the Hands on Atlanta website for projects that fit your interests and your schedule this weekend. 

MLK Day 5K at Piedmont Park

This Midtown event is “gathering the diverse groups in our beloved community to celebrate Martin Luther King Day in the spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood with fellowship and fitness.”

This 5K walk/run will take place entirely in Piedmont Park as the USATF certified race course and Peachtree Road Race qualifier will be run on grass, road, gravel, wooden bridge and dirt paths through the Park. There will also be a 3.1-mile drumline all along the race course.

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And of course, Monday is Inauguration Day in Washington D.C. as President Barack Obama will be sworn in the traditional ceremonial swearing in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol that is open to the public.

The president will honor King by taking the oath of office for his second term with his hand placed on two bibles—one owned by King and one owned by Abraham Lincoln.

What do you think Dr. King would say? He would have turned 84 years-old last week if his life was not tragically taken. Would Dr. King think we made it to the Promised Land or do you think he would still say that citizens in America have a ways to go?

The Democratic Party of Georgia cordially invites all to view the live televised inauguration on Monday, Jan. 21 from 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at its westside headquarters located at 763 Trabert Avenue.

State Dems intend to “celebrate our future as we honor our past,” at the all ages event where food and drinks will be provided. Tickets are $20 online, $25 and can be purchased here.

Afterwards, many will also attend the MLK Day March & Rally on Auburn Ave. between Peachtree and Jackson streets in Atlanta. The march will start at 2 p.m.

The Inauguration Watch Party requires a ticket or payment at the door; the Martin Luther King Jr. Day March & Rally is a free event.