Martin Luther King Jr., a reverend and civil-rights activist, was assassinated at 39. However, he inspired several movements and political changes.

The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. once confessed to Harry Belafonte that he feared Black Americans were "integrating into a burning house," or a nation losing its moral vision, according to the late New York singer and activist. The problem, Belafonte said, required everyday Americans to “become the firemen.”

The dual celebrations of a second Trump inauguration and the civil rights leader’s birth raise profound questions about Black leadership and progress toward the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream.

As the nation recognizes Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, a traditional celebration will take place locally. The 2025 MLK Day Beloved Community Commemorative Service kicks off at 9 a.m. on Monday, and you can watch it live from home.

Before you do, take a look at which facilities plan to be closed for the holiday. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is always the third Monday in January. This year, that falls on Monday, Jan. 20. Yes, Martin Luther King Jr.

From rice and soy to dehydrated vegetables and vitamins, more than 100 FedEx employees on Monday were assembling meals for others in need at the corporate headquarters in Moon Township.Rise Against Hunger will then take these meals and give them to people around the world.