Rockland Post Desk
As communities across Rockland County prepare to mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, January 19, 2026, local churches, civic groups, and nonprofits are coming together to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and continue his call for justice, equality, and service.
A brief look at Dr. King’s life and legacy
Martin Luther King Jr. was born in 1929 in Atlanta and became the most recognized leader of the modern civil rights movement. As a Baptist minister, he preached and practiced nonviolent protest, inspired by his Christian faith and the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi.
King rose to national prominence during the Montgomery Bus Boycott and went on to help lead historic campaigns challenging segregation and racial discrimination across the South. His leadership reached a defining moment during the 1963 March on Washington, where he delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech before hundreds of thousands at the Lincoln Memorial.
In 1964, King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his commitment to nonviolence. He was assassinated in Memphis in 1968, but his message continues to resonate across generations.
How MLK Day became a national observance
Martin Luther King Jr. Day became a federal holiday in 1986 after years of advocacy nationwide. Observed on the third Monday of January, the holiday honors King’s birthday and his lifelong work.
Since the passage of the King Holiday and Service Act in 1994, the day has also been promoted as a “Day of Service,” encouraging Americans to volunteer and strengthen their communities.
Local NAACP voices on MLK Day
Local leaders with the NAACP say the annual observance in Rockland County is meant to be both reflective and forward-looking.
“Dr. King’s message of justice and unity still guides our community,” said Nicole Hines, president of the Nyack NAACP. “MLK Day gives us a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come and how far we still must go.”
“Bringing neighbors together across faiths and backgrounds makes Dr. King’s dream real right here in Rockland,” added Wilbur Aldridge, first vice president of the Nyack NAACP.
“Service and solidarity form the heart of today’s observance,” said William Batson, second vice president and communications chair for the branch.
MLK Day 2026 events in Rockland County
Rockland County will mark the holiday with worship services, interfaith gatherings, and community celebrations:
Sunday, Jan. 18 – “Building a Beloved Community”
Congregation Sons of Israel in Upper Nyack will host an afternoon program combining learning and a service project benefiting Soup Angels of Nyack.
Monday, Jan. 19 – MLK Day Service at St. Charles AME Zion Church
The Sparkill church will hold a morning observance featuring clergy, music, and reflections on Dr. King’s message.
Monday, Jan. 19 – Nyack NAACP Interfaith Commemorative Service
The Nyack NAACP will host its annual interfaith service at Pilgrim Baptist Church in Nyack, bringing together faith leaders and residents from across the county.
Monday, Jan. 19 – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration
A large community celebration is planned at Ramapo High School in Spring Valley, featuring speakers, performances, and local organizations.
Carrying the message forward
From church pews to school auditoriums, MLK Day in Rockland County remains both a moment of remembrance and a call to action. Organizers say the goal is not only to honor Dr. King’s words, but to live them — through service, dialogue, and continued work toward understanding and equality.
MLK Day 2026 offers Rockland County another opportunity to come together, reflect, and recommit to the values that continue to shape the community today.