MomsRising: Local groups line up to sponsor MLK Day event for kids

Those first days of the first month of any newly turned year pulses with the energy of unfulfilled intention. The moments from the past year have been experienced, acknowledged, and archived. Momentum for the future is energized by optimism.

January 2014 launched the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. December 2014 closed with too many painful examples of civil and constitutional rights violations. It proved that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s work to push racial inequality into the archives remains unfinished.

Last year, I sat my then seven and five-year-old sons at the computer and we watched Dr. King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. They both yelled, “we’ve been there!” when the camera panned the Washington Monument behind the reflecting pool. Their recognition of a shared geographic landmark created interest in the grainy black and white video.

We listened, and watched. I answered questions. I will continue to answer my children’s difficult questions about race. I will continue to support those that honor Dr. King’s work. I will teach my children well.

Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate MLK Day with your child? Then plan to join us for a kid-friendly birthday party for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.!

For more information, contact Beth Messersmith at 919-323-6179 or beth@momsrising.org.