“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Martin Luther King Jr
January 19th is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as well as Civil Rights Day to honor the Civil Rights Movement. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year, which is around the time of King’s birthday, January 15. Toronto recognizes Martin Luther King Jr. Day, although it is not a paid holiday in Toronto, and all government services and businesses remain open.
King played a pivotal role in ending the legal segregation of African-American citizens in the South and other areas of the US, as well as the creation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. King received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, among several other honors.
He was assassinated in April 1968 at the age of 39, but continues to be remembered as one of the most lauded African-American leaders in history, often referenced by his 1963 speech, “I Have a Dream.” He left behind a legacy of hope and inspiration that continues to this day.
