The Silver State Chronicles

I’m leaving a comment here because I feel bad that no one else did. MLK deserves to be remembered. It’s too bad he never made it to see his dream come true.

Thelma,

Rev. MLK’s contributions were great and significant. His presence and leadership probably did more to help avert much more serious racial strife in his time.

That being said, I think MLK Day should have been ‘Civil Rights Day.’ There were many other people who contributed to the Civil Rights movement, and I’d like to see them honored with a Civil Rights Day, too. So I always make a point to mention their commitment and work on this day.

Very good point Vinnie. There were others who deserve recognition as well but isn’t that what Black History Month is for?

Thelma,

Well, Black History Month I think makes a point to explore and honor the contributions of African Americans in US and World history. The Civil Rights movement in the USA is certainly part of it, but I don’t think that is the main focus.

Any way you cut it, it’s important to remember the contributions of MLK and all the others, of all races, who worked in the civil rights movement. God bless them all.

Let’s not forget that MLKJ died a martyr’s death, which gives him an air of uniquely American sainthood. It’s not surprising that he would rate his own day. Lots of other people did contribute mightily, but people like Fannie Lou Hamer and Medgar Evers just don’t have the same resonant impact. I do like the idea of a Civil Rights Day, though. Or should we call it “Pick on White Males Day” instead?

Jaytee,

Yes, his martyrdom does elevate him quite a bit. Part of my problem with MLK Day (as opposed to my proposed Civil Rights Day) is that the other national holidays named after American historical figures (Lincoln’s birthday – also martyred, and Washington’s birthday) were erased from the calendar and replaced with a holiday with nobody’s proper name attached to it.

If Lincoln’s and Washington’s birthdays were still honored (I really dislike ‘Presidents Day’), there would be a stronger case for MLK Day. But they aren’t, so I don’t see why he should gain that distinction, especially since as I said there were many, many people who contributed to his very just and holy cause.

Doesn’t matter – they won’t change it. That being said, I like to mention that the day should also honor many folks whose names aren’t that well known, that’s all.