VA observes Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

VA celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day January 20. This is the 25th anniversary of the day that celebrates the civil rights leader’s life and legacy.

Americans observe MLK Day each year on the third Monday in January. It is “a day on, not a day off.” A national day of service that encourages Americans to volunteer to improve their communities.

Staff at the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“A day on”

VA’s Voluntary Service partners with the Corporation for National and Community Service, which provides this link for MLK Day opportunities.

VA medical centers will mark the day with special events. Examples are chapel services and participating in community parades, like the one in Oklahoma City pictured above.

In the photo above, Carol Stinchcomb and Wade Vlosich carry the banner. Stinchcomb is vice president of the Black Affairs Council; Vlosich is the Oklahoma VA Health Care System director. The Black Affairs Council has partnered with the Oklahoma Martin Luther King Coalition for the past 10 years.

Kerry Mucker, chair of the MLK Coalition, said, “This opportunity is one of the best parts. To see the enthusiasm of our VA staff, their children and friends. To have the opportunity to walk in the parade, pass out candy, decorate the float and more.”

Dr. Richard Stone, executive in charge of VA’s Veterans Health Administration, agrees. “Our military Veterans and their families are our highest priority, and the people who serve them our most treasured resource. We must ensure equal opportunity is carried out through the hiring, promotion and advancement of our diverse workforce.”

More on Dr. King from the Library of Congress.