Idaho Human Rights Day
Idaho Human Rights Day is a holiday that coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day and is a state holiday in Idaho. Although the inclusion of this holiday on the third Monday in January is somewhat controversial to some due to its coexistence with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the holiday is designed to embrace diversity and promote human rights.
United States (State holiday) - IdahoThe History of Idaho Human Rights Day
Idaho initiated this state holiday in 1990 as a way to participate in the national holiday of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Since the holiday’s enactment, schools, businesses, and government offices close on this day, and public transportation may have adjusted hours.
Facts About Martin Luther King Jr.
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr., we have decided to list some facts about him that we think are appropriate to share with everyone observing Idaho Human Rights Day.
- Martin Luther King’s name was originally Michael King Jr. He changed his name after being inspired by Protestant Reformation leader Martin Luther.
- Martin Luther King Jr. was born on January 15, 1929.
- Martin Luther King attended Morehouse College in 1944 at the age of 15.
- King was arrested a total of 29 times.
- The only other Americans to have their birthdays observed as a national holiday besides King are George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
- Martin Luther King Jr. earned a Bachelor of Divinity degree from Crozer Theological Seminary in Chester, Pennsylvania, and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Systematic Theology from Boston University.
Observing Idaho Human Rights Day
This holiday is often celebrated with special events, speeches, and even parades or musical performances. Tributes to Martin Luther King Jr. and other human rights activists are published in newspapers and online, and tributes are broadcast on TV. People also use the hashtag #IdahoHumanRightsDay on their social media accounts on this day.
United States (State holiday) - Idaho
