“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?.” Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., 1967 sermon
With most schools closed on Monday, January 15 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we have put together a list of a few things to do to learn more about Martin Luther King, Jr., his legacy, and how to volunteer in the Greater Lansing community.
Be sure to check back, as we learn of more events we will add to this list. If you know of any, please email [email protected]
Support a Black-owned business
Here’s a GLAMoms list of Greater Lansing Local Black Owned Businesses
Visit your local library and check out a couple of books about Martin Luther King Jr.
Many libraries will be closed Monday so plan ahead and make your selections before. HERE is a list of top picks from the East Lansing Public Library staff. Including:
I am Martin Luther King, Jr
I Have a Dream
My Daddy, Dr Martin Luther King, Jr
What was the March on Washington
Coloring pages with famous MLK Quotes to help all ages learn more about this important holiday.
Watch films about King’s life
Maybe begin with Our Friend, Martin, a story that is shared in numerous classrooms. Although it is an animated film, it features historical footage of King at different times in his life. Then watch Ava Duvernay’s Selma to find out that King lived a life that was much more complex than the image we have been told.
MSU’s 44th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration
Events January 12-January 19
- The 2024 MLK Commemorative March: Monday, Jan. 15, starting at 9 a.m. The march will begin at Beaumont Tower and will conclude across the street from the site of the MSU multicultural center.
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Dinner: Tuesday, Jan. 16 at 5:30 p.m. The 44th annual dinner will occur at the Kellogg Center Hotel and Conference Center, featuring 1855 Professor Blaire Morseau. Registration is required – seats are limited.
- Toward Freedom Film Series: This weeklong event is presented by MSU Libraries and WKAR Public Media, featuring films that speak on perseverance through adversity.
- Stuff the Library Book Drive: This annual drive, supporting Grand Rapids Public Schools this year, works to fill a school district’s libraries with books on topics of social justice and characters from diverse backgrounds. Learn how you can donate.
- MSU MLK Celebration Calendar of Events
Ameri-Corp MLK video MLK Day of Serve 2024 | AmeriCorps
OTHER THINGS TO DO ON MLK DAY
MLK Day Skate, 1-5pm
EDRU, Holt
MLK Day Family Swim 10am-12pm
Goldfish Swim School, Okemos
Launch
Okemos, $22 VALUE! When you purchase a SUPERCHARGED COMBO you will receive a FREE Loaded Return Pass (Return pass is good for single redemption anytime between May 1st-Oct 1st, 2024)
High Caliber Karting
Okemos, Unlimited Racing with the purchase of an All Access Pass
2024 MLK Step Challenge
Virtual, Free January 12-15, 2024 from 9 AM-9 PM EST
Participate in the 2024 MLK Day Step Challenge and honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. from the comfort of your own home!
Get ready to take part in this fun and invigorating challenge, where the goal is to take as many steps as possible to celebrate Dr. King’s commitment to equality and justice.
Challenge: Record at minimum, 2,009 steps and post the image along with a selfie using the hashtag: #EtaPiStepChallenge
Want to get outside? Check out our list of area sledding hills !
Looking for more ideas, head to our WINTER FUN GUIDE for all sorts of indoor and outdoor fun!
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a day dedicated to volunteer service honoring his Legacy. To find additional volunteer opportunities, visit Mlkday.gov
