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This Monday, January 20, is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday signed into law in 1983 and first observed in 1986 to acknowledge and reflect on one of the most important civil rights advocates and peacemakers in our nation’s history. We celebrate and honor the life and enduring legacy of this iconic figure.

Dr. King was a skilled and effective orator, and his words have inspired millions of people around the world. This special day gives us an opportunity to pause and reflect on his words and achievements and the progress we have made to realize his dream of a country for all Americans. It also reminds us how much further we have to go. 

The following day, January 21, is the , an initiative launched in 2017 with an aim of “bringing all people together in their common humanity and inspiring collective action to create a more just and equitable world.”

“This special day gives us an opportunity to pause and reflect on his words and achievements and the progress we have made to realize his dream of a country for all Americans.”

 — SMC President Roger J. Thompson

One way to gain a deeper appreciation of Dr. King’s legacy is to read some of his writing and speeches, as well as various perspectives from others. In Collegiate Seminar, the Saint Mary’s community reads and reflects on Dr. King’s 1963 Letter from Birmingham Jail. As he writes, “So the question is not whether we will be extremist, but what kind of extremists we will be. Will we be extremists for hate, or will we be extremists for love? Will we be extremists for the preservation of injustice, or will we be extremists for the cause of justice?”

The life, legacy, and values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. align extraordinarily well with the Lasallian Core Principles of Concern for the Poor and Social Justice, Faith in the Presence of God, Quality Education, Respect for all Persons, and Inclusive Community. He was truly a remarkable individual and one we can always look to for inspiration and understanding.

I wish each of you a genuine day of reflection and renewed commitment to the principles of justice, equality, and peace Dr. King espoused. As stated in our mission, may we grow together as a community in truth, wisdom, and love.

Sincerely,

Roger J. Thompson, EdD

President