Proclamation
Whereas, January 15, 2024 marks the 95th anniversary of the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; and
Whereas, Dr. King was a leading figure of the Civil Rights Movement whose non-violent activism brought about monumental progress in racial equality and justice and led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Tragically, Dr. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968, but his legacy continues to this day; and
Whereas, nearly sixty years later, Dr. King’s “dream” still resonates, inspiring us to navigate, confront, and address the ongoing impacts of structural racism, both locally and nationally; and
Whereas, remembering and celebrating Dr. King and his achievements encourages us to reflect on the importance of individuals speaking up against injustice and providing a voice for underrepresented and underprivileged communities. Dr. King famously said, “darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that;” and
Whereas, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a state holiday in California, and since 1977, the City of Alameda has celebrated the holiday with dance and musical performances, remarks, and tributes in City Hall; and
Whereas, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is also a federal holiday, designated as a National Day of Service to encourage Americans to take a “day on, not a day off” and volunteer with other community members to enact meaningful change. For example, at Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Shoreline on nearby San Leandro Bay the East Bay Regional Park District Shoreline organizes clean-ups and tree-plantings to commemorate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Now, therefore, be it resolved, that I, Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, Mayor of the City of Alameda, hereby declare the third Monday in January 2024 as
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
in the City of Alameda and encourage all residents to learn more about the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther, Jr. and participate in community service projects to honor his legacy.
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor