In 1986 on January 20th, the United States officially recognized Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with an observance day dedicated to reflecting on his words and deeds, and encouraging Americans to commit to a day of service. In 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed the bill, which was introduced to Congress in 1979, and then made into law. And yet, it took another 3 years for the day to actually be observed.
Today, the Trump Administration has made attempts to cancel MLK Day, but lacks the power to do so. Congress is the only entity that can actually cancel the federally recognized holiday of honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. Partially in response to the potential of the current administration canceling the day itself, Georgetown University has moved their annual Let Freedom Ring concert, which will be headlined by rapper and actor, Common, from the Kennedy Center to D.C.’s historical Howard Theatre, a place which opened its doors in 1910 giving black people a safe place to show up as audience members.
When: January 18th at 3:00pm
What: Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
Who: Stratford Interfaith Clergy Association
Hosts: St. Mark Roman Catholic Church, 500 Wigwam Lane, Stratford, CT 06614
All are welcome. Light refreshments will be served at the service. Learn more here.
When: January 19th at 10am-3pm
What: Exhibition and Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Life
Who: Ruby and Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum
Location: 952 East Broadway, Stratford, CT 06615
See their website for more information.
When: January 19th at 9am-12pm
What: Honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with a morning focused on culture and creativity.
Who: Sterling Community Center in collaboration with the Baldwin Center
Location: Baldwin Center, 1000 W Broad St, Stratford, CT 06615 Registration is required.
When: January 19th at 10 am-5pm
What: A special day dedicated to honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with science for all!
Who: Sacred Heart University: Science Center and Planetarium
Location: 4450 Park Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604
Learn about your brain and how dreams are formed, share your dreams, and see how inspiration sparks! The first 200 children visiting will receive FREE admission! Learn more.
