These pictures are from the MLK Day of Service event in Anchorage.

“What are you doing for others?” Martin Luther King, Jr. once asked.

MLK’s drive to serve his neighbors and communities prompted people across the U.S. to campaign for a day to honor him, his work and his vision. Thanks to committed advocates, efforts to establish this federal holiday succeeded in 1983. Supporters for its passage included Alaska’s very own Ed Wesley, a community advocate who’s been involved in driving change in the Anchorage area for 47 years.

In 1994, MLK Day was also designated as a National Day of Service. Now, the third Monday in every January is synonymous with Martin Luther King, Jr., volunteerism and activism. MLK Day of Service reminds us to speak up and help others. We’ll be attending and hope to see you there too.

This year, MLK Day of Service occurs on Monday, January 15. Local advocacy organizations, including Alaska Black Caucus, and other nonprofits are organizing an event to honor this federal holiday together. Members of our community are invited to attend the “I Have a Dream” Solidarity Cultural Celebration at Bettye Davis East Anchorage High School between 5:00 and 8:30 p.m.

Celebrating MLK Day of Service at Bettye Davis East High School is fitting. Why? This high school’s namesake made a lasting difference in our community and all of Alaska. Like MLK, Ms. Davis was committed to serving others and improving communities. To understand her reach, we chatted with Mr. Wesley.  Over the years, he’s observed and empowered many changemakers, including Ms. Davis, and tracked their influences.

“Bettye had an energy and a compassion that made speaking truth to power effective,” shares Mr. Wesley. “When she wasn’t sleeping, she was working to make people’s lives better.”

Ms. Davis’s impact in our community stretched over forty years—from social work to political advocacy and state legislation. As Mr. Wesley reflects on her influence and the significance of holidays that honor activism and volunteerism, he notes, “MLK Day of Service events are important because they bring educational enlightenment to community issues, historical efforts and cultural values.”

We’ve seen firsthand what happens when educational enlightenment occurs. People get involved. Change happens. Everyone is lifted up. Because United Way of Anchorage knows that working together creates stronger solutions around a common vision, we support opportunities that motivate others to raise their voice and act, like participating in the “I Have a Dream” Solidarity Cultural Celebration, being hosted by Alaska Black Caucus. At this event, you can:

• Find resources from health, student, advocacy and BIPOC organizations.
• Learn about upcoming gatherings, like the Black Expo and Juneteenth.
• Enjoy entertainment, performances and food.
• Register to present products or services at booths. Limited space available.
• Sponsor the activities. Due by January 8, 2024.
• Volunteer.

So please join us on Monday, January 15. Together, we’ll be inspired by people like Martin Luther King, Jr., Bettye Davis, Ed Wesley and many others. They’ve spoken up, helped out and made lasting change for everyone in our community—and we can too.

DOWNLOAD MLK DAY OF SERVICE FLYER