LANSING — Reflecting on his life as a passionate leader in the Civil Rights movement who promoted his teachings and philosophy of love, tolerance, and nonviolence, advancing social justice, equality, and freedom for all people across the United States, and his life and legacy continue to inspire us to pursue a more just society and stand up against discrimination, injustice, and violence, Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared Monday January 15, 2024, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in Michigan.
In a proclamation, Whitmer wrote:
WHEREAS, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a passionate leader in the Civil Rights movement who promoted his teachings and philosophy of love, tolerance, and nonviolence; and,
WHEREAS, Dr. King dedicated his life to advancing social justice, equality, and freedom for all people across the United States, and his life and legacy continue to inspire us to pursue a more just society and stand up against discrimination, injustice, and violence; and,
WHEREAS, from 1957 to 1968, Dr. King traveled more than six million miles and spoke over 2,500 times, wherever and whenever there was injustice, protest, and inaction. Dr. King wrote numerous books and articles to promote his teachings, and directed the peaceful march on Washington, D.C. where he delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech; and,
WHEREAS, despite being arrested and assaulted numerous times, Dr. King continued his courageous and powerful stand for what he believed in and his tireless effort to create the change he wished to see in the world; and,
WHEREAS, for his significant contributions and leadership in the quest for justice and peace in our nation, Dr. King was awarded five honorary degrees, named Man of the Year by Time magazine, and became the youngest person ever to receive the Nobel Peace Prize; and,
WHEREAS, Congress passed a bill in 1983 that declared the third Monday of January as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King, while recommitting ourselves to the values of love, tolerance, and nonviolence he embedded in us, and think of our own ways to help build a just and equal society for all;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim January 15, 2024, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Michigan.
MLK Day has a been a National Holiday since being signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983.
