“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” 

–Martin Luther King Jr. 

On January 15, 1929, Martin Luther King Jr. was born in Atlanta, Ga., forever changing the course of events for civil rights in the United States. Today, and every day, we honor his lifelong dedication to justice, equality, and service for the greater good. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 20, the National Constitution Center offers free admission, special programming, and educational resources. 

Create Engaging Lesson Plans

Here are some NCC resources to prepare short lessons or extra credit assignments on King's life and legacy:

Constitution Daily blog posts:

• Five interesting facts on the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr.
• 10 fascinating facts about the “I Have A Dream” speech
• How the Martin Luther King Jr. birthday became a holiday

We the People podcasts:

• The Constitutional and Moral Philosophy of Dr. Martin Luther King
• MLK, the Declaration, and the Constitution

Crafts and Activities:

• “I Have a Dream” Mobiles
• Civics in Literature Lesson: Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service

Local to Philadelphia? Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the Center

On Monday, January 20, the museum is open for extended hours on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission is free. Some programs at the museum include:

📅 Artifact Spotlight: March on Washington Pennant –10:45 a.m. and 3:45 p.m., in the First Amendment Exhibit. Explore the First Amendment through the lens of one the most influential demonstrations in our nation’s history: The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

📅 Reading of “I Have a Dream” Speech –11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m., Grand Hall Overlook, Second Floor. A diverse ensemble of local actors perform a passionate reading of Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.

📅 Family Concert: Songs Inspired by the Civil Rights Era –12:45 p.m. and 2:45 p.m., Kirby Auditorium. David and Jenny Heitler-Klevans of the interactive children’s music group, Two of a Kind, join composer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and educator Rodney Whittenberg for a celebration of songs inspired by the civil rights era.

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