From putting on programs to attending them to marches, working with the homeless, you name it, I have done it for MLK Day. I usually celebrate his real birthday, too (which is easy to remember for me, cause it's my folks' wedding anniversary - what can I say, I get that militant streak from somewhere
)
This year, I will most likely remember and reflect personally and talk with my children about the man, the movement and its effect on us today. Last year, I supported the local brunch, which was sponsored by my city's African American newspaper. I have worn all black just about every year since I was a teenager in respect and recognition, and it has started some interesting conversations.
It is really sad that children aren't being taught the about the full impact of the Civil Rights Struggle (or that it continues today - but that's another thread for another time).
I went to a predominantly black elementary school, and we wrote so many black history reports that it wasn't even funny
. I did not like the extra work at the time, but looking back on it all these years later, I am really appreciative that my elders sought to make me and my classmates learn of all the great things our people had accomplished and contributed to the history of this nation.