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Celebrations of the life of Martin Luther King Jr. will occur around the country this month. Dr. King spent the majority of his 39 years in pursuit of equal treatment for all of America’s citizens, for which he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize when he was only 35. Now the third Monday of January has been devoted, not just to remembering a great man, but also to the continuance of his efforts.
The ideals of civil liberty and racial equality sound like very adult concepts, impossible to discuss with a small child. But at the root lie some surprisingly basic lessons we all want our children to learn.
| Respect |
Dr. King’s desire was for every person in America to be treated with basic respect regardless of race. This idea can be expanded to include respect for others regardless of religion, gender, size, social status, age, etc. As parents we all want to raise children who treat others with respect, and MLK Day provides another opportunity for discussion, to drive this point home without lecturing or nagging.
| Sharing |
The civil rights movement highlighted the need for all of us to have equal access to our great country’s resources. If you have more than one child, undoubtedly one has at one time or another kept candy or toys from the other unfairly. By teaching your children to share, you are teaching the importance of equal opportunity and a moral sense of fairness.
| Education |
It’s easy to take education for granted. It’s tuition-free. It’s available to everyone. But Dr. King and his followers, knowing the value of education, fought hard to open school doors once closed to them, knowing that education held the keys to so many of life’s treasures. When your child complains about going to school, start a discussion about the people who were willing to risk life and limb for a better education.
| Freedom |
It’s one of the most highly prized concepts in America. The freedom to move about our town, state and country, the freedom to speak our mind, the freedom to live where we want, the freedom to believe what we choose. We are proud to live in a country based on these freedoms, and talking about MLK Day gives us another chance to pass that feeling of pride down to the next generation.
| MLK DAY EVENTS |
If you would like to teach your children more about civil liberties, or if you would like to add your voice to those working toward a more unified Columbus, there are many community activities to choose from. Attendance by people of all races is welcomed and encouraged.
January 19
12th Annual Unity Parade of
Excellence
Phenix City to Columbus
1 p.m.
Info: Barbara Smith 706-653-4378
Thirteen floats start out on Colin Powell
Parkway and travel to RiverCenter for the
Performing Arts to promote unity among the
Valley communities.
January 21
City-Wide Youth Observance
St. James AME Church
1002 6th Ave
9:45 a.m.
Info: Dr. Emma Hunter 706-561-1586
or emmahunter@mchsi.com
Essay and poster contest finalists will
present their entries. Local children will
perform music selections, and small group
discussions will be held for adults and children
on various topics. Free lunch to follow.
City-Wide Youth Summit
Fourth Street Baptist Church
222 5th St.
2 p.m.
Info: 706-324-2055
General assembly “Mind, Stance, Drill”
with several speakers, including local children,
focusing on topics related to Dr. King’s
message. Smaller sessions for ages 6-12, 13
& up, and adults.
