Martin Luther King Day is Jan. 16 this year.
The federal holiday marking the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. is a day to honor the life and legacy of the late civil rights leader.
MLK Day has few long-standing traditions, but for many in Snohomish County the third Monday in January is a day of community service, a day to promote equal rights for all Americans and a day to reflect on King’s mission and teachings.
Here are some ways to honor Martin Luther King Jr.:
1. The annual Whidbey Island Martin Luther King Jr. “Blessed Are The Peacemakers” event at St. Augustine’s-in-the-Woods from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Jan. 16 will feature interactive readings on the martyrs of Selma and voting rights, recordings of King’s speeches, musical performances and a keynote speaker.
Free lunch provided from noon to 12:45 p.m.
St. Augustine’s is at 5217 Honeymoon Bay Road, Freeland. Call 360-678-5071 for more.
Also in Freeland, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Whidbey Island will screen the PBS Tavis Smiley special, “A Call to Conscience,” at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 16. The church is at 20103 Highway 525.
On April 4, 1967, King delivered the controversial speech, “Beyond Vietnam,” about his opposition to the war in Vietnam. The one-hour special includes his speech and commentary. Call 360-342-1457 for more.
2. Global Peace Foundation USA, Service for Peace, Corporation for National &Community Services, and Lynnwood Parks &Recreation are hosting an MLK Day of Service for youth ages 14-18 on Jan. 18. Meet at Prestige Care Inc., 21008 76th Ave. W, Edmonds, to volunteer from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Service projects will include poster making for Meadowdale Elementary School, writing letters for the Lynnwood Food Bank and trail rehabilitation at the Lynnwood Golf Course.
Lunch will be provided.
Call 406-794-2847 or email usyouth@globalpeace.org for more information.
3. Treat your fellow Americans with dignity and respect, regardless of their background.
— Sara Bruestle, Herald writer
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