For each topic, please write 2 paragraphs using the sources given!
1. The many paths to MLK Day
While we know that Ronald Reagan signed the bill that eventually became law, so that the MLK, Jr.’s birthday became a national holiday, did you know about some of the activism that helped to push that movement forth?
Here’s some information about musician Stevie Wonder, and his part of that movement:
https://www.soulmusic.com/article/april-1981-stevie-wonder-releases-happy-birthday-honor-dr-martin-luther-king-jr
Similarly, during this national movement for the MLK, Jr. Day, many states refused to support it. Here’s some short piece on Arizona’s resistance. Also, here’s hip hop group, Public Enemy’s response: “By the Time I Get to Arizona”
Did you know this history? Can musicians be “activists”?
2. Ronald Reagan, the father of modern conservatism, signed the legislation that made Martin Luther King, Jr. Day a national holiday. Why? Why would a Republican how had been antagonistic towards the civil rights movement support a holiday honoring one of its most lauded representatives?
Read Christopher Petrella and Justin Gomer “Reagan Used MLK Day to Undermine Racial Justice” https://bostonreview.net/articles/christopher-petrella-reagan-created-mlk-day-because-he-hated-mlk/?fbclid=IwAR1aDztEHb607wSTsYc7WV3kppHe6O_ttTk4XLIBf5rpvzVXunLQ9OVw2S4
What are some of your thoughts on this essay? How does this essay some of the thoughts of historian Theoharis?
