This past week we celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday meant to honor the life and accomplishments of MLK. As a prominent civil rights figure, Dr. King’s tireless efforts towards equality through peaceful protest led to groundbreaking changes in the United States. The holiday in his name was first observed on Jan 20, 1986, making this the 38th year that it was celebrated. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is unique in that it is not just a public holiday but also a national day of service. It is meant to encourage citizens to honor his memory by engaging in acts of service and volunteerism within their community. This day serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to creating a more just and compassionate society.

 Service lies at the core of AmeriCorps’ mission, embodying principles of volunteerism, selflessness, and working towards the greater good. This ethos aligns seamlessly with the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr., who envisioned a world where individuals united to address societal challenges. The spirit of volunteerism fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility, echoing MLK’s dream of a unified nation. By participating in service activities, AmeriCorps members and community volunteers alike embody the principles that MLK held dear, carrying on the ideals of equality and justice.

 On this Day of Service, I had the privilege of planning and participating in a Read For Peace Activity as part of my AmeriCorps term. In collaboration with a local elementary school, we engaged fourth-grade classrooms in readings and discussions centered around Martin Luther King’s life. This culminated with an “I have a Dream…” worksheet, encouraging students to identify and contemplate challenges within their own communities. Through their responses and drawings, we assembled a felt ‘dream quilt,’ which represented their collective aspirations for a better world. This activity not only celebrated MLK’s legacy but also empowered the students to believe in their capacity to effect positive change.

 Engaging with these fourth-grade students during the Read For Peace Activity provided invaluable insights into the way children perceive and process the world. It reinforced the notion that, even at a young age, children can be changemakers in their communities. By fostering discussions on social issues and encouraging them to envision a brighter future, we plant seeds of activism and compassion. The activity underlines the importance of initiating conversations about social change and justice early on, instilling in children the belief that they can contribute meaningfully to creating a world aligned with Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream. I felt truly inspired by the dreams held by these students, and truly enjoyed the planning and execution of this important day. It was a beautiful reminder of Dr. King’s legacy, and the importance of community and kindness.