MLK Day: More than just a day to take on Twitter
January 24, 2022
Many people think that every third Monday of January is simply a day off from school or work; a day to relax and go to the beach. But for the 36th time, as a country, we will celebrate the life and trajectory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a hero in the fight for civil rights. Though King was assassinated in 1968, it was not until 1983 during the Reagan administration that the holiday was established. Finally, in 1986, Martin Luther King Day was observed in the United States.
In regards to how to be mindful of this day, Social Studies teacher, Stacy Filocco said, “Each of our national holidays, from Martin Luther King Jr. Day to President’s Day to Memorial Day are invitations for us to dig into not only the person or people being commemorated but their legacy. Even the history of these holidays themselves are an interesting lens through which we can learn about our society. A democracy relies on informed citizenship and knowing our own history, in its many layers, allows us to make informed decisions about the future.”
MLK day is a day to honor a man who was not scared to call out all those who stood on the sidelines watching and it offers an opportunity to teach the new generation about standing up for their beliefs and rights through non-violent means.
One way to observe this holiday is by supporting Black-owned businesses, such as the following:
Ladies of the Sea and & Soul
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This restaurant is located on 2705 E Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Tampa, FL 33610 and serves the most original & Best Quality Seafood/Soulfood in The Tampa Bay Area. It’s open every Monday through Thursday so make sure you stop by.
Cake Drip
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This event studio boutique located at 1625 W Snow Cir, Tampa, FL 33606 offers DIY Cakes and Chocolate Tasting Flight interlaced with a choice of over 30 Exotic Flavors. Though mostly for adults, Cake Drip welcomes all ages to use the self-serve kiosk anytime during our operating hours. This boutique studio provides fun, a place to make memories and enjoy an unforgettable experience. Amalia Peńa (’23) said, “It’s important to support black-owned businesses and this one, in particular, is beautiful. I tried to seek out businesses like this to support because it is a small way to support racial justice.”
Main Course Restaurant and Lounge:
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The newest upscale brunch restaurant that’s hit South Tampa. Although Main Course specializes in Soul Food Brunch, they are also known for the Lobster and Red Velvet Waffles plus their 20+ wing flavors. Something curious about this restaurant is their “tell me your dreams” wall that allows you to write your manifestations.
If you can’t go eat or shop, you can donate. Here are some reliable places whose donations will go directly to the continuous fight for civil rights:
The Martin Luther King Jr. Center For Nonviolent Social Change:
? A thread of #MLK speeches, sermons and interviews in which he tells inconvenient truths, shares about his philosophy of nonviolence, and expounds on injustice and what our righteous, rigorous response should be.
Relevant. Revelatory. Revolutionary. #MLKDay #MLKDay2022 pic.twitter.com/2vdUjGyDaE
— The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center (@TheKingCenter) January 17, 2022
This organization was founded by Coretta Scott King, and it seeks to educate and spread Dr. King’s message. With a donation of $3, you can be an “Activist Supporter.”
Revisit MLK’s powerful words in ltr. from Birmingham jail as we face renewed challenges to #civilrights https://t.co/oydQPHSsD8 pic.twitter.com/MxCplmbvkq
— Legal Defense Fund (@NAACP_LDF) January 15, 2017
This organization is more than 75 years old and is a non-profit legal activist agency that works to combat inequality and racial injustice in America’s criminal justice system. It works relentlessly to make the country’s economic and educational prospects brighter for all Americans.
Rainbow PUSH (People United to Serve Humanity) Coalition
Dr. King’s influence on me was total. My seminary work, my work with him, my travel with him. He taught me what priorities should be. My basic priorities come from my association with him and his influence upon my life as a minister. #MLKDay #MLKDay2022 pic.twitter.com/OuP9nquFvv
— Rev Jesse Jackson Sr (@RevJJackson) January 17, 2022
It was founded in 1996 by a protege of King, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr. This organization raises money to help improve the lives of marginalized Americans, it serves as a voice for those who don’t have one and promotes “peace and justice around the world.”