Joshua Hall

It is Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2018.

It is a special federal and state holiday set aside each year to honor Dr. King’s incredible legacy of fighting for freedom and equality for African Americans resulting in equal rights for people of all races. It is also a time to reflect on what we can do to make America a better place regardless of race, ethnicity or personal beliefs.

As a product of the segregated South, I've witnessed firsthand how far we've come since the Civil Rights Movement of the 50s and 60s. However, the Charlottesville incident and the current immigration issues are clear indications that there is still much work to be done to eradicate injustice and make the American dream a reality for all.

There are many services and events across the state commemorating MLK Day.

At the State Capitol, the Connecticut Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Commission will honor three people and hold the 32nd Annual Bell Ringing of the Liberty Bell beginning at 11 a.m.

The three people will be given the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Commission Distinction Award. They are: Lisa Tepper Bates, executive director of the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness; Evelyn B. Green, who has used her skills as a librarian and certified archivist to work with cultural history groups, her church and other organizations; and JoAnn H. Price, an investment company executive who has also played an important role to improve higher education and support arts and cultural organizations.

Music will be performed by the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Choir.

As you go about your day on Monday, I hope you'll take a moment to reflect on the many valuable lessons imparted to us by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the need for equality and justice for all.