Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Arizona was the last state in the United States to make this an official holiday, for reasons which are hard to envision as anything other than rooted in racism, either covertly or overtly. The state debated and battled over it for the better part of a decade.
“In November 1992, voters passed a Martin Luther King Civil Rights Day holiday. Arizona was the last state in the union to formally install an MLK holiday. (New Hampshire has a Civil Rights Day.) But Arizona was the only state to approve the MLK holiday by popular affirmation.”
While I taught at the University of Arizona, and later other places, I included Martin Luther King, Jr’s writing in my syllabus—because it is so valuable, on multiple levels.
He understood how to reach his audience. He understood the principles of rhetorical strategy. He understood justice. He came to his work with heart and passion. His voice ranges in many directions, while keeping a clear focus. I’ve learned a great deal, reading his words, considering his delivery, and letting my spirit be enriched by listening.
He was a writer, a speaker, a social justice worker, and so much more.
Today, I’ll say, Cheers. Let’s consider Martin Luther King, Jr., in his wisdom and in our loss, a life lost too soon.
xo