2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday Observance

1.  In accordance with Public Law 98-144 (1983), 
the third Monday of January is designated as a federal holiday to 
honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year, we 
commemorate his life and achievements on Monday, January 20, 2025. 
In observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, this year's theme, 
"Excellence in Action," honors the legacy of nonviolent 
demonstrators who fought to address the injustices faced by Black 
Americans and other minorities.
2.  The Civil Rights Act of 1964 marked a pivotal moment in the 
fight against racial discrimination and segregation, with 
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. calling it a "second emancipation." 
The Act desegregated public facilities, schools, and addressed 
discriminatory voting practices, while prohibiting discrimination 
in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or 
national origin. The civil rights movement faced violent 
opposition, epitomized by the brutal attack on activists during the 
1965 "Bloody Sunday" march in Selma, Alabama. This tragic event 
galvanized the nation in its fight against racial injustice. 
Dr. King's leadership, culminating in the successful 1965 
Selma-to-Montgomery march and subsequent passage of the 
Voting Rights Act and Fair Housing Act, is symbolized in this 
year's commemorative poster, which honors his enduring commitment 
to equality and justice. The poster is found on the Defense Equal 
Opportunity Management Institute website: https://www.deomi.mil/
Special-Observances/#martin-luther-king-jr-birthday.
3.  In observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, commanders are 
encouraged to honor his legacy by organizing programs and 
activities that celebrate his contributions. Participation in local 
community events and unit-level observances is strongly encouraged, 
fostering reflection on the ideals Dr. King championed and their 
continued significance to our mission and values.
4.  Release authorized by Brigadier General David R. Everly, 
Director, Manpower Plans and Policy Division, Manpower and Reserve 
Affairs.