← Goodera Guides
/
MLK Day Guide

How to celebrate MLK Day at work: A comprehensive guide

Learn how to celebrate MLK Day at work with purpose and respect. Explore impactful ways to honor Dr. King’s legacy through inclusive events, community service, and reflective activities that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
“Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline.”

Words we borrowed from an exemplary figure who fiercely advocated the path of non-violence as he led the struggle to realize a dream.

A dream where the sons of former slaves and those of the owners sit together at the table of brotherhood; a world where people are judged not by the color of their skin, but by the depth of their character; a nation with fair wages, education, economic justice, and civil rights protections.

A dream that has seen some fruition but remains a work in progress.

On the third Monday of January, we observe a day of remembrance known as MLK Day. This day honors the endeavors of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the struggle against racial and economic segregation.

How do we celebrate MLK Day at work? How do we remain respectful as we do so? The do’s, the don’ts, and the strategies that will help us contribute to the realization of this dream—read on to learn all that and more.

What is MLK Day? When is it celebrated?

MLK Day is an American holiday observed annually on the third Monday of January. It is a day of rememberence and reflection on the works of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In 2025, MLK Day will be observed on January 20th.

Benefits of celebrating MLK Day at work?

1. Promotes a culture of diversity and inclusion

Celebrating MLK Day at work reinforces a commitment to equality, respect, and social justice. Hosting MLK Day events, such as team reflections or service projects, encourages open conversations around race, equity, and the shared responsibility of fostering an inclusive workplace.

According to a recent survey by Deloitte, 91% of the respondents claimed that volunteering opportunities has a positive impact on their relationship with their employer and their work experience. ‍

‍

2. Strengthens team unity and engagement

Planning and participating in meaningful MLK Day activities like volunteering for community service allows employees to connect beyond work roles. These activities honor Dr. King’s legacy, promote camaraderie, and strengthen team bonds.

‍

3. Boosts employee morale

Honoring MLK Day via actionable volunteering opportunities has multiple benefits on employee morale. They are not only proud to be part of an organization that values empathy, service, and civic engagement, but also enjoy physical and mental health benefits like reduced stress and related health ailments.

Mayo Clinic links volunteer work with reduced stress levels and additional physical and mental health benefits, especially in employees aged 60 and above.

‍

4. Enhances awareness and empathy

Commemorating Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality. Engaging employees in activities that emphasize empathy—such as creating educational materials or hosting diversity discussions—fosters greater understanding of social issues.

‍

5. Aligns company values with purposeful action

When organizations actively seek ways to celebrate MLK Day at work, they show dedication to values beyond business goals.

According to a survey conducted by Deloitte, 74% of employees think volunteerism provides them with an improved sense of purpose.

MLK Day events and celebrations

There are many impactful ways to celebrate Martin Luther King Day. While you can usually witness parades and speeches from civil rights leaders aligned with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s ideologies, organizations can also plan and execute full-fledged MLK Day events that celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Here are some MLK Day events you can participate in:

  • Parades and Marches: Join or organize parades and unity marches inspired by civil rights movements.‍
  • Public Readings: Host readings of Dr. King’s speeches and writings to honor his legacy.
  • Community Service Projects: Participate in volunteer projects that address community needs and promote social equity. The following sections detail some MLK Day of Service ideas that you can organize for your team.
  • Educational Workshops: Offer sessions on civil rights history and Dr. King’s contributions.
  • Film Screenings and Discussions: Screen documentaries and lead discussions on themes of racial justice.
  • Diversity and Inclusion Panels: Organize panels focusing on equity, inclusion, and the ongoing impact of Dr. King’s work.

How do you respectfully celebrate MLK Day at work?

A common question arises about whether it’s appropriate to say “Happy MLK Day” as a greeting. The answer is nuanced. Since Martin Luther King Jr. Day is intended for reflection on racial equality and the struggles against economic and racial segregation, the word “happy” can feel out of place. Yet, some choose it to express appreciation for the holiday as a time to celebrate progress and recognize achievements.

Rather than simply greeting others, consider using this day as an opportunity for genuine reflection on Dr. King’s legacy. Acknowledge ongoing challenges and take meaningful steps to make a difference.

Here are some ‘Do’s’ and ‘Don’ts’ to celebrate MLK Day at work

Do:

  1. Create Safe Spaces for Reflection: Provide platforms where employees can share experiences or learn at their own pace.
  2. Encourage Inclusive Participation: Offer employees the choice to join in ways that feel meaningful to them, from attending discussions to joining community initiatives.
  3. Support Employee-Driven Initiatives: Empower ERG and DEI groups to organize and lead events for genuine impact.

‍

Dont's:

  1. Avoid One-Time Actions: Treat MLK Day as part of a broader commitment to DEI, not an isolated event.
  2. Don’t Prescribe Activities: Recognize that personal reflection is meaningful too; participation doesn’t have to be uniform.
  3. Avoid Symbolic Gestures Without Action: Ensure activities reflect sustained commitment, not just symbolic recognition.

‍

Now that we have learned about the precautions let’s explore some fun, engaging, and truly impactful ideas for MLK Day of Service.

MLK Day service ideas for the workplace

  • Support unemployed youth in marginalized communities: This initiative reflects Dr. King’s commitment to economic justice. Offering support and resources to young people facing job market challenges upholds his vision of equality and opportunity for all.
  • Create audiobooks and educational materials on Dr. King’s teachings: Providing accessible resources on Dr. King's life and ideals fosters a deeper understanding of his commitment to socio-economic equality and peace.
  • Develop financial literacy toolkits for youth: Educating young people about financial independence promotes economic empowerment—a core aspect of Dr. King's fight against systemic poverty and economic inequality.
  • Pack and distribute meals and essentials to underserved communities: This act of service embodies Dr. King’s belief in compassionate community support and addressing basic needs, especially for those facing adversity.
  • Prepare school supplies for students from marginalized communities: Ensuring that all children have access to educational resources aligns with Dr. King’s vision of equal opportunity and the transformative power of education.
  • Craft messages of care from the elderly: By encouraging seniors to share messages, you bridge generational gaps and foster a spirit of community connection, compassion, and wisdom that Dr. King valued.

‍

Here are some additional ideas for MLK Day of Service that your teams would love.

At Goodera, we strive to help organizations like yours do good without worrying about the hassle. Contact us, and we will help you plan and host the MLK Day event for your team. We take care of end-to-end logistics, site management, resource procurement, and more. Simply fill out the contact form at the top right, and we will take it from there.

Social Development Goals (SDGs) you can support while celebrating MLK Day at work

SDG 1: No Poverty

Dr. King advocated for economic justice and equality. This SDG aligns with his ideals by aiming to eradicate poverty and ensure everyone has the resources they need for a decent life.

SDG 4: Quality Education

Dr. King emphasized education’s role in building an equitable society. This goal ensures inclusive, accessible, and equitable education, helping to bridge social divides and promote lifelong learning.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Aligned with Dr. King’s vision for economic opportunities, SDG 8 promotes sustainable economic growth, productive employment, and fair work conditions, supporting dignified livelihoods for all.

Read more about how to promote racial equity in the workplace.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Dr. King’s work focused on equality and human rights. This goal aims to reduce disparities in income, opportunities, and social power, resonating with his dream of a fair and just society.

Explore activity ideas to enhance DEI initiatives at your workplace via volunteering.

Promote racial equity through engaging team activities

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

With Dr. King’s commitment to social justice, SDG 11 promotes inclusive communities, access to services, and safe living environments, addressing the structural issues that lead to social inequity.

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Dr. King’s advocacy for nonviolence and justice aligns closely with this goal, which seeks to promote peaceful, just societies with transparent institutions that serve all people fairly.