INDIANAPOLIS — Martin Luther King Jr. was born January 15, 1929 and grew up to be an American civil rights activist and Baptist minister. He was the leader for the civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. He advanced civil rights for people of color in the United States through the use of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience against Jim Crow laws and other forms of legalized discrimination. On November 2, 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed a bill creating a federal holiday to honor King. Observed for the first time on January 20, 1986, this year’s celebration is the 40th anniversary of honoring Dr. King.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is also considered a day of service, when communities can help each other and learn from each other. The Indianapolis Public Library branches, as well as federal, state, and local government offices will be closed. Trash pick-up will operate on a slide schedule, with Monday service on Tuesday, and so on.
All public attractions in White River State Park, 801 W. Washington St. will offer free admission with donations on Monday, Jan. 19. At the Indianapolis Zoo, there will be animal chats, a dolphin presentation and a chance to learn how the Zoo works to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. After your Zoo visit, take a stroll through White River State Park and explore the many other free attractions the park has to offer. The Eiteljorg will offer new collections of Western, Indigenous People, and contemporary art (cash donations to Gleaners encouraged). The Indiana State Museum will highlight original copies of the Emancipation Proclamation and 13th Amendment, performances, and much more (donations to Gleaners are appreciated).
Close by, the Indiana Historical Society, 450 West Ohio Street, visitors can participate in a hands-on service project designing bags for the Concord Neighborhood Center and explore the Wall of Reflection honoring Dr. King’s legacy. Don’t miss a special presentation by Susan Hall Dotson, “Dr. King’s Visits to Indiana,” celebrating the profound impact of his time in our state. Museum exhibits open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Donations of nonperishable food, new towels, pillows, and toiletries for the HVAF pantry are admission to the building to support veterans.
Newfields, 4000 N. Michigan Rd., will also open their doors for free to Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with an inspiring day of artistic expression, cultural connection, and community. Create a symbolic memory pin for a community work of art and make one to take home and enjoy family-friendly storytime sessions featuring Black authors, and activities for all ages. A donation of non perishable food and new socks is the entry fee.
