MLK Day 2025: Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

As the nation comes together to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on MLK Day 2025, Atlanta once again serves as the heart of this commemoration. The annual MLK Day Beloved Community Commemorative Service is set to take place at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, starting at 9 a.m. on Monday, January 20, 2025. This year's theme, "Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365," reflects Dr. King's enduring legacy of nonviolence and social change.

How to Watch the MLK Day 2025 Service

There are several ways to tune into the service, ensuring that everyone can participate from the comfort of their homes. FOX 5 Atlanta will broadcast the event live, hosted by Deidra Dukes. Here’s how you can watch:

Smart TV: Download the FOX Local app.

Online: Stream the service live on FOX5Atlanta.com.

Social Media: Join the community on Facebook or YouTube to watch and leave real-time comments.

Keynote Speaker: Bishop William J. Barber II

This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Bishop William J. Barber II, a prominent activist and co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call For Moral Revival. Known for his passionate advocacy for civil rights and social justice, Bishop Barber has dedicated his life to continuing Dr. King’s mission.

Born in 1963 in Indianapolis and raised in North Carolina, Bishop Barber began his journey as a civil rights leader at a young age. At 15, he became president of his local NAACP youth council, and by 19, he was the student government president at North Carolina Central University.

Over the years, Bishop Barber has gained recognition for his nonviolent protests and activism, including leading the Moral Mondays movement in Raleigh, North Carolina, in 2013. His commitment to justice has even led to multiple arrests during peaceful demonstrations for health care, voting rights, and higher wages. Currently, he presides over Repairers of the Breach, a nonprofit organization focused on social change, and teaches at Yale University.

Why Do We Celebrate MLK Day?

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday that honors the life and legacy of one of the most influential leaders in the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. King’s nonviolent approach to fighting racism, segregation, and inequality changed the course of American history.

From the Montgomery Bus Boycott to the March on Washington, Dr. King led pivotal movements that inspired change. His famous “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered on August 28, 1963, during the March on Washington, remains a symbol of hope and equality.

MLK Day, observed on the third Monday of January, encourages everyone to reflect on the issues of racism, justice, and civil rights. Although it doesn’t always coincide with Dr. King’s birthday on January 15, the holiday serves as a reminder of his vision for a just and equitable society.

Atlanta’s Deep Connection to Dr. King

Atlanta holds a special place in Dr. King’s story. Born in Atlanta in 1929, Dr. King’s roots in the city run deep. His maternal grandfather, Rev. Adam Daniel Williams, became the pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in 1894. Dr. King’s father, Martin Luther King Sr., later took over the role, and Dr. King himself served as co-pastor until his assassination in 1968.

Atlanta was not just Dr. King’s hometown but also a hub for education and activism. He attended Morehouse College at the age of 15, where he began to shape his vision for social justice. Today, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, located near Ebenezer Baptist Church, stands as a tribute to his legacy.

The Journey to MLK Day

The road to making Dr. King’s birthday a federal holiday was long and challenging. It wasn’t until 1983 that President Ronald Reagan signed the legislation, officially recognizing MLK Day. The first national celebration took place on January 20, 1986.

Some states resisted adopting the holiday, with Arizona being one of the last to recognize it. The state faced boycotts and lost the opportunity to host the 1993 Super Bowl. It wasn’t until 1992 that Arizona’s citizens voted to enact MLK Day. By 2000, all 50 states had officially recognized the holiday.

Dr. King’s Legacy Today

If Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. were alive today, he would have turned 96 on January 15, 2025. His teachings on nonviolence and equality continue to inspire generations. Dr. King remains the only non-president to have a federal holiday dedicated to his memory.

The King family’s connection to Atlanta and the Ebenezer Baptist Church serves as a reminder of the city’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. The King Center, established by Coretta Scott King, continues to advance his mission for justice and equality.