Madison City Schools are closed for MLK Day, and in honor of this day, students should remember his contributions to our society.

Martin Luther King Jr. wasn’t just a leader—he was a symbol of hope, a man who envisioned a world transformed for the betterment of humanity. As a pastor, he understood the power of faith and love and used his words to lead the Civil Rights movement, eventually helping the Civil Rights Act of 1964 get passed. He also influenced the Voting Rights of 1965. He even won the Nobel Peace Prize and became the youngest person to ever win it.

Dr. King courageously confronted hatred and injustice, using nonviolent methods to push for change. His Montgomery Bus Boycott lasted over a year, leading to the Supreme Court ruling that bus segregation was unconstitutional. His iconic “I Have a Dream” speech was a powerful cry for freedom and equality during the March on Washington event. This speech continues to inspire people across the globe who are still striving for those same ideals.

So, when someone says it’s “just a day off,” remember the immense impact Martin Luther King, Jr. had in shaping the world we live in today.