Monday, 16 January 2012 is the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service. It is a Federal holiday recognizing the many accomplishments and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The theme for this holiday is "Remember-Celebrate-Act. A Day On, Not a Day Off." Click here to read the ALCOAST 028/12 for this day.

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R171502Z JAN 12
ALCOAST 028/12
COMDTNOTE 5350

SUBJ: 2012 DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE

1. Monday, 16 January 2012 is a Federal holiday recognizing the many accomplishments and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The theme for this holiday is "Remember-Celebrate-Act. A day on, not a day off." Dr. King’s wife, Coretta Scott King, described the annual observance as an occasion for "interracial and intercultural cooperation and sharing." The MLK observance is not an African American holiday, but one which belongs to all people and is celebrated world-wide.

2. In the 21st century, it is important to reflect on what distinguished Martin Luther King, Jr. from others, and why he is worthy of our remembrance. Dr. King was driven by the simple desire to see all Americans enjoy civil rights and opportunities. While some other African American leaders espoused separation and violence, Dr. King envisioned a united America created through nonviolent social change. His philosophy of nonviolence flowed logically from his upbringing in the African American church and his preparation for the ministry.

3. Over the course of fourteen grueling years, he molded the tactic of nonviolent, direct action from an admirable theory into a powerful force for concrete social change. Through it all, he motivated others through his mastery of the spoken word and his willingness to suffer on behalf of others. His commitment to civil and human rights eventually cost him his life. Dr. King’s legacy extends beyond the revolutionary social change he led in America. He demonstrated that oppression and violence can be overcome without resorting to violence and oppression. His legacy is now enshrined in a national holiday, and will endure in the 21st century and beyond.

4. All members are encouraged to mark 16 January by giving of themselves in the community. Coast Guard units and commands are encouraged to study, and as appropriate, call forth and emulate throughout the year the many examples of leadership by Dr. King. Additional resources and information can be found at www.thekingcenter.org and at www.deomi.org/observances.

5. Capt P. E. Boinay, Acting Director, Civil Rights Directorate, sends.
6. Internet Release is Authorized