Links for MLK Day

A wealth of media that educates and inspires

Martin Luther King Jr.: His life in pictures

Today, as we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, it’s more important than ever to reflect on the relevancy of his work. This holiday in his name is juxtaposed with the inauguration of Trump to his second term as president. Having these leaders share a day of honor is synchronicity adding insult to injury, highlighting the clash of values at the center of November’s election and our future as a nation.

As a way to counter my own fears, I have begun a campaign for more intentional reading and other media consumption in the new year. This starts mostly as a personal goal, but I also intend to promote it and celebrate it here with you, Dear Reader. By prioritizing media that educates and inspires, we equip ourselves to take meaningful action. So I begin here today, ignoring the inauguration entirely and investing in the vision of the Beloved Community that Dr. King has advocated for.

Dr. King’s career was shaped by the challenges he faced while sharing his message of civil rights. His work had made him both a celebrated leader and a target of intense opposition. By the time of his assassination, he experienced waning public support and government efforts to stifle his influence. Dr. King persisted, fully aware of the dangers he faced. His unwavering commitment reminds us of the fickle nature of public memory and the importance of resisting hatred and injustice when we encounter it. His legacy urges us to remain vigilant and courageous in the face of adversity.

As King himself taught us, the arc of the moral universe is long. So the work continues in our hearts and communities, no matter what happens inside the Capitol Rotunda today. And let us commit to our continued participation in the ways we can manage, like taking a little time on this day of days, to focus on Dr. King, his life and what he desired for the future of this country.

If you read one thing about MLK today, read this short article by Dr. James Peterson outlining “The Blueprint for the Beloved Community” in Wurd Magazine. It lays out the essential attributes of the Beloved Community and offers a framework for fostering justice and equality in our daily lives. Let this be a first small step in a year of resistances—one that carries forward Dr. King’s dream of a just and compassionate world.

And below are many more links for your reading, listening, and watching pleasure. Please continue at your own pace. Love to you and yours.