On January 20, 2025, we recognize Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, also known as MLK Day. Established as a federal holiday in 1983, the day commemorates the life and legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr.
A day of service
In 1994, the King Holiday and Service Act was signed into law by President Bill Clinton. Inspired by Kingās life of service, the legislation encouraged Americans to find common causes and methods of improving their communities, making MLK Day āa day on, not a day off.ā (National Museum of African American History and Culture) Today, inspired by King and his remarkable life of service, thousands of Americans commemorate the day by volunteering in their communities.
A man of principles
King was known for his commitment to human and social rights and a doctrine of nonviolent protest. He preached and embodied the principles of civil disobedience, racial pride, pacifism, and social commitment. His preaching of resistance and equality made him a key figure in the struggle for an egalitarian society at a time when even seats on buses were separated for Black and White people. (Encyclopedia of Humanities)
Fair and equal treatment
Kingās call for fair and equitable treatment of all people and his belief that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness have special relevance for those in our autism community. Neurodiverse individuals do not always receive fair and equitable treatment, are not always treated kindly. That is why the Autism Society of North Carolina not only provides services and supports to individuals with autism but works alongside autistic individuals and our autism community to support belonging with dignity and educate communities about the possibilities and challenges we face. By raising awareness, appreciation, and understanding, we hope to help build a more equal, equitable, and loving world for all.
On this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, please join us in raising autism awareness in your community. Learn more about autism and the Autism Society of North Carolina at autismsociety-nc.org.
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