By Brian Townsend

Editor of Precinct Reporter Group

For years, African Americans and others who struggled to change the social fabric of America, fought to have Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s unique contributions and leadership recognized as a national holiday. At first, the objections revolved around his worthiness of such recognition. Were his actions worthy of continued national recognition? With the support of legions, he fought for the right to vote, the end of segregation, equal access to jobs, the end of poverty, and the end of the Vietnam War. The indefatigable efforts of citizens throughout the country, inspired by his leadership, changed public policy forever in this country.

He had a Dream! And in his short life of 39 years, his inspiration left these shores and inspired social movements around the world. As arguments against his worthiness of celebration fell, as this society became engaged in his ideals of a more inclusive nation, and the realization of his long-lasting impact set in, other arguments against the holiday became necessary. Most often, it boiled down to economics. We could not afford to celebrate his legacy. It was too costly to add another holiday no matter its merits. Yet through it all, his supporters were able to get the holiday passed in Congress with strong support from both sides of the aisle and signed by President Ronald Reagan. His contributions were too great and his ultimate sacrifice for his people established his legacy as a truly great American.

It is therefore untenable that local governments should unilaterally ignore the celebration of his life held throughout the country on the third Monday of January. The cities of Highland, Chino, and Diamond Bar did not close their offices for the King holiday. Why celebrate the other national holidays, but not Dr. King’s? And will southern California residents sit idle with the slap in the face to not just an African American hero, but an authentic American hero who fought for civil rights for all?

Will residents demand full recognition going forward? Maybe there will be an economic impact beyond the cost of the holiday itself. Certainly, the bargaining representatives of city employees should not let this insult continue. Certainly, residents should consider its options of conducting business in those cities since they have not recognized the import of their decision to ignore his legacy. Certainly state and federal officials can look at their options in providing taxpayer dollars to cities that offend such a large segment of society.

We celebrate King because he represented the best of America. He happened to be Black, but his fight was for the oppressed wherever they might be, and whoever they might be. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”