Dr. King’s legacy felt by students today

Chiderah Edeh

The Advocate

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a holiday; it’s a day to remember a man who changed history and gave hope to millions. King is best known for his leadership during the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s, a time when Black people in the United States faced segregation, discrimination and unfair laws that limited their opportunities. He believed in fairness, justice and equality and worked tirelessly to create a better future for everyone.

During that time, life for Black people was filled with barriers. Schools, neighborhoods and jobs were often off-limits, and simple things like public transportation or restaurants were restricted by law. Thinking about what people had to go through really makes me appreciate how far we’ve come and how much work is still left to do. King’s leadership challenged these barriers and gave people hope for a future where they could live, learn and work with dignity. His actions opened doors that had been closed for generations and inspired millions to stand up for their rights.

King used peaceful protests, speeches and marches to make his voice heard. He believed that change could happen through love and understanding, not anger or violence. One of his most famous speeches, “I Have a Dream,” expressed his vision of a world where “people will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” That line always sticks with me — it’s simple, but it carries so much power. He also said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” and I think about that whenever I see unfairness in my own community. It reminds me that staying silent isn’t an option.

MLK Day is not only about remembering his life, but it’s also about taking action. King once asked, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” I like to think about this on MLK Day and ask myself how I can contribute, even in small ways. Many people honor his legacy by volunteering, helping their communities or supporting those in need. Even little acts of kindness can create real change, just like King showed through his work.

To me, his message is still meaningful today, especially for students and our community. At MHCC, we can honor King by supporting each other, speaking up when things feel unfair or volunteering around campus and in our neighborhoods. Equality and fairness aren’t just ideas from the past — they’re things we can practice every day. MLK Day also makes me reflect personally. It reminds me to stand up when something feels wrong and to try to make a positive difference, no matter how small. King’s life shows that even ordinary people can create extraordinary change when they act with courage and compassion. His example motivates me to speak up, treat everyone with respect and make fairness and equality a part of how I live each day.

King gave hope and freedom to Black people, and his work still inspires people of all races today. Remembering him isn’t just about honoring the past — it’s about how we choose to live today and what we can do to make the world a fairer, kinder place.