MLK Day 2023
Monday, January 16, 2023

A wide range of activities reflect on Dr. King’s life and ministry

Bristol, TN/VA – January 6, 2023 – Numerous opportunities are available for Tri-Cities community members to come together to learn, serve and celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  Dr. King’s birthday was officially made a federal holiday in 1986.  The holiday is a time to celebrate, commemorate and honor the life, legacy and impact of Dr. King’s work.

A variety of community organizations are providing many ways for our community to engage through guest speakers, letter writing, movie screenings, walks/marches, religious celebrations, and singing.  Visit the interactive calendar of events on the YWCA’s website at www.ywcatnva.org/mlk2023 for details.  Together our community can make a difference by continuing to work toward the Beloved Community envisioned by Dr. King.  This year’s national theme is “Cultivating a Beloved Community Mindset to Transform Unjust Systems.”  The King Center defines The Beloved Community as one “where injustice ceases and love prevails.”  Today’s struggles around violence, hate and poverty reveal the continued urgency of Dr. King’s work.

To obtain additional information about events and resources and other ways you can commemorate the King Holiday, visit www.thekingcenter.org/king-holiday-2023

“My father’s legacy is about much more than service projects. If you plant a tree, also educate about environmental injustice + racial injustice. If you paint a mural at a school, also host a workshop on inequity in education. Plant a garden, but also commit to ending food deserts and eradicating the injustices that cause them. Service matters. Systemic change alleviates WHY the service is needed.” 

- Dr. Bernice King

For more information reach out to [email protected] or visit the regional calendar of events at  www.ywcatnva.org/mlk2023