DURHAM — Monday is the official Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, but there are already numerous celebrations taking place throughout our area.

Friday, residents inDurhamand state employees received a preview of what is in store for next week.

Some Durham residents gathered in their local post office to honor a special man.

"The struggle for justice is a mission that is worth carrying forth daily. Dr. King had a great dream for America, and we owe him a debt of gratitude," said one speaker.

This is just one ofmany Martin Luther King Day celebrationsthat will take place over the next week. Their goal is to erase problems that have been written into our culture for years.

"A lot of politics, a lot of jealousy, a lot of hatred, racism," said Curtis Gatewood of theNAACPDurham Chapter. "That is a specific problem that we need to work on."

Across town inRaleigh, beneath all the music, Governor Hunt told state employees there was a deeper message to be heard.

"His legacy should not just be celebrated or preached about. It ought to be practiced," said Hunt.

And if that practice is carried out, in Dr. King's words, "We'll be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old negro spiritual. 'Free at last, free at last. Thank God Almighty we're free at last.'"

The Town of Cary has a week-long celebration taking place.N.C. Statehas numerous events as does Wake Forest.