“Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve,” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
State of Oregon offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his impactful contributions to underserved communities. Recognized as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK Day), it serves as a day of service dedicated to fostering a sense of community through various acts of service. Notably, MLK Day is the sole federal holiday designated as the National Day of Service. Emphasizing community service aligns with the principles of DCBS diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and plays a crucial role in building cross-cultural relationships.
“From his historic speeches to his inspiring writings to his motivating calls to action, he passionately worked towards justice and equality throughout his life,” said Department of Consumer and Business Services Director Andrew Stolfi. “I encourage you to take time to reflect on his enduring insights and leadership by exploring his public addresses, community engagement, and written text. And in his honor, let us persist in our efforts to prioritize unity, equity, and community.”
The DCBS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council encourages you to participate in MLK Day activities in your local communities.
Salem:
NAACP with American Red Cross: “Help People When They Need it the Most” are hosting a
blood drive to assist communities experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces the lowest number of people giving blood in 20 years. Your blood donation is needed now to help alleviate the shortage and ensure lifesaving medical procedures are not delayed.
Details: Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Salem Donor Center, 1860 Hawthorne Ave NE.
Central Oregon:
There are 10 opportunities to make a positive difference with your time ranging from painting classrooms to writing cards for Meals on Wheels clients.
Hermiston:
Hermiston will host its annual
MLK event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The gathering will begin at Hermiston City Hall, 180 NE Second St. The group will participate in a peace walk, followed by a program featuring Poet Jordan, titled “The Shape of Your Heart.”
Greater Portland:
Hands On Greater Portland lists many activities community partners are hosting, along with other events that are facilitated both online and in-person in honor of Dr. King’s legacy. They include planting trees and making care kits.
Corvallis:
The
2024 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Week kicks off with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service on Saturday, Jan. 13, which features the Peace Breakfast and March on Monday, Jan. 15, and concludes with the Commemoration keynote on Wednesday, Jan. 31. This year marks the 42nd anniversary of the commemoration event.
Eugene:
The
University of Oregon inaugural symposium to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day will take place over two days with a slate of events planned for Eugene, as well as the university’s northeast Portland campus. It will mark the first time UO has celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a two-day symposium.
Ashland:
Gather on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, for Southern Oregon’s Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Celebration from noon to 1:30 p.m., at the Historic Ashland Armory.
Grants Pass:
There are many event opportunities, Friday, Jan. 12, through Monday, Jan. 15.
View the list.
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