On Monday, January 17th we celebrate the birth and life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King worked tirelessly for equal rights and humane treatment for all. His principles of nonviolent resistance and demand for justice continue to resonate with many today. Many families observe MLK Day by talking about Dr. King and other civil rights leaders like Rosa Parks, John Lewis, and Medgar Evers, and how the fight for equal rights for all continues. 

This MLK Day we encourage you to sit with your children and read a book about Dr. King, reflect on one of his powerful speeches, listen to and talk about songs that were prominent at civil rights marches, seek out a virtual performance celebrating Dr. King, or take action on current civil rights legislation like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. 

Here are some books that our students are enjoying in the classroom to learn about Dr. King.

At home, your younger children may enjoy reading Martin’s Big Words with you.

For older children, Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop is a powerful story by a woman whose family participated in the Memphis Sanitation Strike of 1968. 

Another way to share information about the Civil Rights Movement is through the music that was created and performed at that time. Here is a Spotify playlist of Civil Rights Anthems.

As we observe and reflect on Dr. King’s life and legacy, what steps will you and your family take to continue the work of racial justice and equal rights for all?

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EVENT REMINDER:
ABAR Book Club & Discussion Group
Join us January 24th!

Beginning this month, the ABAR Book Club will begin reading the book How to be an Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi. If you are interested in joining us, please complete this form to be added to the email list. There is no expectation that you will attend every meeting. In fact, we encourage you to join the email list even if you are busy and unsure whether you’ll make every meeting. The book club discussion will be held via Zoom on these dates:
Monday, January 24 at 7:30 pm: Chapters 1-4
Monday, February 28 at 7:30 pm: Chapters 5-9
Monday, April 4 at 7:30 pm: Chapters 10-13
Monday, May 2 at 7:30 pm: Chapters 14-18
The Longmont Library has multiple copies available, as well an excellent audiobook version available on the Libby or OverDrive apps. Join us to learn, discuss questions, and share insights!