Community groups across the North Bay are gearing up for a series of events marking Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday honoring the life and legacy of the civil rights leader who championed racial equality, social justice and nonviolent activism.
Observed the third Monday in January — Jan. 19 this year — the holiday has also been designated a national day of service, encouraging Americans to volunteer and strengthen their communities in King’s memory.
King, a Baptist minister and prominent leader of the civil rights movement, is best remembered for his role in ending legalized racial segregation and his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech delivered during the 1963 March on Washington.
His philosophy of nonviolent protest helped catalyze landmark legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
In the spirit of the holiday, here are a few ways to get involved:
Santa Rosa
MLK Day of Service at Martin Luther King Jr. Park:
Community Baptist Church and the Community Equity Foundation will host a cleanup at Martin Luther King Jr. Park. Volunteer activities include litter pickup, spreading mulch, weeding and general park beautification. Tools and light refreshments will be provided. Meet from 9 a.m. to noon at 1208 Hendley St. Registration is encouraged.
Sonoma
MLK Day of Service Creek Beautification:
The Sonoma Ecology Center will host a volunteer workday at Nathanson Creek Preserve at 1221 Dewell Drive in Sonoma, focusing on trash removal and restoration of a native plant area along the creek. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Volunteers should dress for outdoor work and bring water.
Napa County
MLK Day Trail Clean-Up:
The Napa County Bicycle Coalition will hold its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day cleanup along the Vine Trail, a shared-use path in Napa. Volunteers will meet at 9 a.m. at The Hub bike shop, 2500 Jefferson St., and work until about 11:30 a.m. Coffee and doughnuts will be available.
MLK Day of Service on the Napa River Trail:
The Napa Resource Conservation District, in partnership with the city of Napa, will lead a volunteer effort to remove invasive English ivy along the Napa River Trail. All tools will be provided. Volunteers should bring gloves, sturdy shoes, water and snacks. Meet at 9 a.m. at the designated trailhead. Work ends at noon.
Napa Valley Celebration of Compassion & Action:
The annual Napa Valley MLK celebration honoring King’s vision of a “beloved community” includes a Commemoration Ceremony on Sunday at CrossWalk Church, followed by a Community Service Day on Monday. Justin-Siena High School will serve as the home base from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with community organizations offering activities and volunteer opportunities for all ages.
Petaluma