Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King History

The observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day is an occasion which remembers and celebrates the life and achievements of an iconic American civil rights leader. Known globally for his steadfast dedication to racial equality and peace, Martin Luther King Jr.'s contributions have had a significant impact on social justice movements worldwide. This commemoration plays a crucial role in promoting understanding, acceptance, and solidarity, with a distinct emphasis on racial equality and nonviolent social activism.

Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most influential figures in the American civil rights movement throughout the 1950s and 1960s. His philosophy of nonviolent resistance, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, has found resonance with many social justice movements across countries, including Australia. King's famous I Have a Dream speech, delivered during the 1963 March on Washington, has universal relevance, echoing in the hearts of individuals striving for equality and civil rights. His doctrine of peaceful protest not only shaped American society but also serves as an enduring guide for human rights activists and social justice advocates in Australia.

Though not declared as a public holiday in Australia, the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. is widely recognised and valued. The day is marked by public lectures, discussions, and inclusive activities that promote diversity and multicultural understanding. His philosophy and belief in solidarity contribute to the Australian portrayal of a harmonious multicultural society. Martin Luther King Jr.'s quest for equality and his influence on social justice movements hold specific relevance for Australians, making this observance pertinent and noteworthy. As in the United States, this important reflection takes place on the third Monday of January each year.

Facts about Martin Luther King Jr.

• Martin Luther King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. He was 35 years old, which made him the youngest Peace Prize winner at the time.
• I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., August 28, 1963.
• He is one of the two Americans whose birthdays are observed as federal holidays, the other one being George Washington.
• In 1967, Martin Luther King Jr. was awarded the Honorary Doctorate of Civil Law by the University of Newcastle in New South Wales – the first Australian university to bestow such an honor on him.
• The Gurindji Strike, also known as the Wave Hill Walk-Off, was a protest led by Indigenous employees in the Northern Territory in 1966. The strike was partly inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.'s civil rights movement.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Martin Luther King Jr.

Top things to do in Australia for Martin Luther King Jr.

• Watch a movie about MLK. Some popular films include: Our Friend Martin (1999), Selma(2014) and The Witness (2008)
• Australian Meat Pie: Aussies are known for their love of a good meat pie. This could be prepared as a main course with a side salad.