Know the history and meaning behind MLK Day
Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Day is celebrated every year on the third Monday in January.
President Ronald Reagan signed a bill on November 2, 1983, creating a federal holiday in Dr. King’s honor. Martin Luther King Jr. Day was first observed as a national holiday on January 20, 1986.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”
This national observation of the civil rights leader who was assassinated on April 4, 1968, is the only federal holiday designated as a day of service. It’s one where we are all encouraged to give back to our communities.
Although under 40 percent of major corporations include MLK Day as one of their paid holidays during the year, many, like ours, use it as a floating holiday and encourage employees to use the day to give back to the community through service.