Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Observed each year, in January, on the third Monday of the month, Martin Luther King Day is the only federal holiday designated as a national-day-of-service and encourages all Americans to volunteer to help improve their communities.

While much work remains to fulfill in Dr. King’s, “I have a dream speech,” VA remains committed to showing that service can help unify Americans of different backgrounds and experiences. Through service, we can make our communities stronger, while promoting racial equity, expanding civic opportunities and/or encouraging respect for individual differences.

Alfonso Whitt, Innovations Specialist, has been celebrating MLK Day as far back as he can remember. He has worked as a Master of Ceremonies for an event that took place while he served in the U.S. Navy.

“The event was very challenging, but we had a good team of people who wanted to get involved, and we had such a sense of pride: young, black service members doing something positive,’ said Whitt.

Mr. Whitt also recalled a MLK event that took place onboard a Navy ship. An event that he will never forget. 

“I remember our Chaplain saying that change is not easy, and that the U.S. Navy has always been at the forefront of change. The following years after that, we had a significant increase in participation from ALL members of the Navy Command,” said Whitt.

Leading up to MLK Day, VA Medical Centers across America will observe this day with special events and activities. We here at the New Mexico VA Medical Center will have a lunch and learn virtual event and video tribute to honor Martin Luther King Day.

Sebrena Oliver, registered nurse, enjoys servicing not only on the day that honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., but on any day during the week.

“I challenge each of you reading this to find a way to serve on MLK Day and throughout the year,’ said Oliver. “I want many to understand that MLK Day means more than just a day off. Movement can not rest with just one prominent name. Dr. King’s legacy allows for better lives and access to more opportunities.”

Whether you plan on cleaning up a public space, mentoring a young person or possibly assisting the homeless, what you do can make a world of difference. Let’s all do our part this MLK Day and participate in as much as we can. Together we all can make a difference!