(New York , NY) — — America is reflecting today on the legacy of civil rights icon, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The day to celebrate King’s birthday was created in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan, but the movement to honor Dr. King’s birthday actually began 15 years earlier. The first federal MLK holiday went into effect on January 20th, 1986, though several states were still resistant to the idea. Some said King didn’t deserve his own holiday and several southern states chose to include celebrations for various Confederate generals on the same day.
The Brooklyn Academy of Music is hosting its annual Martin Luther King Junior Day tribute. Mayor Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul will be among the speakers at today’s event aimed at honoring the civil rights leader. Carlotta Walls LaNier, one of the members of the famous Little Rock Nine will give the keynote address. There will be dancing and singing as well at the event that’s taking place for the 39th time.
