Martin Luther King Jr. Day is often seen as any other three-day weekend to students, but behind the day honors the man who challenged conformity and changed equality rights that still stand today after his death over 50 years ago.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) was one of many key leaders in the Civil Rights Movement in America during the 60’s when segregation tension was at its highest. MLK worked to end segregation by starting peaceful protests, speeches, and even marches to encourage fellow black Americans to stand up for themselves across the country.

While it may feel like 50 years ago was a long time, the many problems he addressed are still relevant in society today from discrimination to racism not only in public but even in the courts. MLK day is here to remind us of the harsh history America holds and that the work of MLK is not complete; Americans must continue to work towards that nation without racial tension MLK died for.

Every year many people around the nation celebrate MLK day by volunteering and give back to their communities, as serving the people is the best way to honor MLK for he gave his life to serving. Students also take part in remembering MLK through learning his methods to treating others kindly, standing up to bullying, helping those in need, or even including a classmate who might feel left out.

MLK Day is not just about sleeping in and resting. It is to show support and remember a leader who changed America to what we know today. So next January, take a minute to honor MLK and the work he did.