Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a U.S. federal holiday observed annually to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. President Ronald Regan established the holiday to focus on Dr. King’s leadership in the Civil Rights Movement and his fight for equality for all people. This year, the holiday fell on Monday, Jan. 19.

King played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, leading protests and giving speeches against the unfair treatment of minorities. He believed that change could happen without violence, and he encouraged people first to stand up for justice in calm, yet powerful means. His most well-known speech, “I Have a Dream,” shared his belief in a future of unity rather than separation.

“An example of his work being shown today is our school’s population,” Principal  Azande Aikens said. “Because of what he had done during the Civil Rights Movement, we can have diverse and mixed communities.”

Many still use his words today to guide how people should treat and respond to others in unfair or unjust situations.

For many, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is not only about remembering history, but also taking action. One of the many ways people honored the day was by helping their community, either by learning about civil rights or by treating others with respect and dignity. Some people volunteered at shelters, others cleaned parks, donated food, or attended events that taught about King’s life.

“Be sure to give back to the community and make sure that you don’t disrespect anyone in it,” freshman Khidonnie Irving said.

The holiday reminded people that change starts with everyday actions, whether that means cleaning up around the neighborhood, helping someone with a task, or just being kind to others.