Though the federal holiday was officially Jan. 20, The Washington Informer celebrates the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his tremendous contributions to civil rights year long.
While declared upwards of 60 years ago, many of King’s wise words resonate today and are often used in The Informer’s weekly “Words to Live By.” Further, his work continues to inspire countless activists often featured in The Informer’s coverage.
With his commitment to peace and justice, King became a martyr for civil rights, and while his life was robbed at the young age of 39 in 1968, his mission continues through freedom fighters of today.
As the MLK Holiday DC Committee encourages the 2025 theme, “commit to the noble struggle for equal rights,” The Washington Informer is highlighting the people exemplifying that notion through work and action. From religious leaders to artists and politicians, many residents are working toward the fight for equity and justice today.
While social media promotes seeking a “soft life,” an important notion that emphasizes prioritizing overall wellness, committing to the “noble struggle” is critical today and for the future of this nation and world.
“Commit yourself to the noble struggle for human rights. You will make a greater person of yourself, a greater nation of your country and a finer world to live in,” King said in April 1959 at the March for Integrated Schools.
King’s call to action almost 66 years ago is just as important today as it was then.
There’s time and space for “soft life,” in our daily routines, such as eating healthy and nutritious meals, prioritizing self-care, and finding moments for fun. But this moment also requires vigilance, standing up for what is right, and fighting against racism, sexism and unjust policies.
In the famous words of King’s comrade Fannie Lou Hamer: “We have to get out there and work. We don’t have time to be just sitting around idly waiting for someone to come by and save us.”
As the Trump administration and Project 2025 propose efforts that threaten progress toward educational, economic and racial equity, The Washington Informer will not only be covering all the policies and how they affect Black Americans, but highlighting the changemakers working toward a more equitable and just society.
This edition, learn about some of the efforts happening to keep King’s memory and mission alive and turn to The Informer as a regular resource to stay up-to-date on equity work. Find inspiration in the stories and use King’s life and words as a call to action to “commit to the noble struggle” for a just and peaceful nation and world.
