The Martin Luther King holiday was first observed in 1986 – three years after the bill passed and 18 years after Rev. King’s death. The legislation was first proposed just days after the assassination and had a tough road toward approval.

After approval, it took another 14 years before all 50 states enshrined the commemoration. In 2000, South Carolina has the dubious recognition of being the last state to recognized MLK Day at a state (paid) holiday. That was the same year the Confederate flag was moved from atop the State House to the grounds out front.

This year, MLK Day is being celebrated on the 18th and celebrations have been primarily moved to virtual events due to the pandemic. Here’s a partial list of MLK Day events happening in Greenville County.

15 Furman University MLK Community Virtual Breakfast, 9 AM, https://alumlc.org/furman/5110/register

17 Martin Luther King community breakfast, 8 AM, Younts Conference Center, Furman University. $50 per person. https://www.furman.edu/alumni/clubs/events/mlk-community-breakfast-fania-e-davis

20 MLK Day Celebration luncheon 11:30 AM, the events center at Greer City Hall, $5. www.cityofgreer.org 

20 MLK Interfaith Celebration, Daniel Memorial Chapel, Furman University, 7 PM.

20  Just Mercy Youth Screening and discussion, 1-4:30 PM, Camelot Theatre, 48 E. Antrim Drive, to register call Jalen Elrod 864-915-7020.