JANUARY ACTION ALERT

Because the new year is traditionally a time to refocus our efforts on values and causes we believe in, it is perfect timing to take action in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King was born on January 15, 1929, and this year our nation honors the mission and the man on Monday, January 17th. Although the ongoing pandemic, climate change, and last year’s insurrection on the Capitol provide a multitude of reasons to feel discouraged, Dr. King’s legacy reminds us that it is often during trying times that progress is made. We can take inspiration from a popular African American expression: “Making a Way out of No Way.” 

As Coronado Democrats, we stand as allies for those whom Dr. King, himself, wrote, preached, protested, and marched for. We can choose to be energized by his example and by all those who participated in his movement. So, let’s take some time this month to remind ourselves of Dr. King’s legacy and then take action to help make his dream a reality. 

Here are some ideas:

`1.Participate in a Celebration

January 17:  The 33rd Annual Martin Luther King Celebration at the WorldBeat Cultural Center (2100 Park Blvd.) in Balboa Park. This event takes place 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. and is free to the public. 

January 19: The 40th Annual San Diego Martin Luther King Parade happens 2 p.m. - 5p.m. along the Embarcadero. Fuel up with a delicious lunch at The Landing and then ferry over to participate in one of the largest celebrations of its kind in the United States. 

2.Roll-Up Your Sleeves and Help Others

January 17: This federal holiday, honoring Dr. King, is a designated Day of Service. You can find a variety of volunteer opportunities at HandsOnSanDiego.org. 

One opportunity in particular is the Lucky Duck Homeless Program . Lucky Duck is a dynamic group working to help our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness. 

3.Donate to the NAACP - San Diego Branch: https://www.sandiegonaacp.org/donate/

You can either donate to the Branch in general, or you can choose from one of the Youth Programs; ACT-SO for high school youth, STEM Camp and SWAG for middle school students. Finally, the Back-to-School Stay-in-School program helps parents and kids get ready for the new school year.

4.Watch Dr. King’s last speech before he was assassinated: “I’ve Been to the Mountain Top.” 

5.Read Why We Can’t Wait written by Dr. King in 1963. It’s a short book with tremendous power.