Credited to: Rodney Maurice
Today marks the birthday of the late, great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., with national celebrations beginning Monday, January 19, 2026. Across the country, parades, parties, and commemorative events will honor his life and legacy. When I was a small child in school, learning about Dr. King’s life fascinated me. What also frightened me was realizing that he had been assassinated long before I even existed. Imagine being a child, writing book reports about a beloved Black leader who was already gone—a great man who was killed simply for standing firm in his beliefs and fighting so Black people could live freely and with dignity.
As I sit here writing about this man, I am certain of one thing: long after I am dead and gone, his legacy will continue to live on through those who come after us—for the next 50 years and far beyond. That is why it is important to reflect on the reasons Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will always matter.
Here are the key facts about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.:
Born:
January 15, 1929
Atlanta, Georgia
Where he lived:
Atlanta, Georgia – where he was born, raised, and later returned to pastor Ebenezer Baptist Church
Montgomery, Alabama – where he lived during the Montgomery Bus Boycott
(1955–1956)
He also spent significant time traveling across the United States as a civil rights leader, though Atlanta remained his home base
Where he died:
April 4, 1968
Memphis, Tennessee
He was assassinated while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, where he had gone to support striking sanitation workers
St. Louis will host numerous MLK Day events around Monday, January 19, 2026, including celebrations at the Missouri History Museum with “History Exploration Days” (Jan 16-19), performances and youth programs at the St. Louis Art Museum (Jan 18), community service projects like “Building Bridges of Service,” STEM activities at the St. Louis Science Center, and various university commemorations, focusing on themes of justice, service, and the “Beloved Community”.
Key Events & Locations:
Missouri History Museum (Jan 16-19): “With Liberty and Justice for All: MLK in STL” with interactive exhibits, workshops, and storytelling.
St. Louis Art Museum (Jan 18): Family Day featuring youth performances, music, theater, and dance, celebrating the Civil Rights Movement.
St. Louis Science Center (Jan 17-19): “MLK Jr. Weekend” with an “I Have a Dream” Reflection Wall and STEM activities.
Divoll Library & Gamble Community Center (Jan 17 & 19): “Building Bridges of Service” events offering community resources, brain health info, and compassionate care.
WashU Medicine (MLK Week): Commemorative events with keynote speakers and discussions on justice and equality.
In closing, you know St. Louis knows how to throw a party. So make sure you get out and have fun remembering this remarkable civil right figure all weekend.
