Since 1986, the university community has observed the anniversary of the national MLK holiday through lectures, discussions, meditations, videos, workshops, music and dance performances, art exhibits, and other activities. The objectives of Dr. Martin Luther King Week are (a) to remember the life and legacy of Dr. King; (b) to celebrate and commemorate the contributions of the global civil and human rights movements to contemporary concepts of democracy and citizenship; and c) to act with an understanding of the relevance and importance of nonviolence, community service learning, and civic engagement for today’s society. URI Faculty members are requested to involve their classes by integrating these enriching events into their courses and assignments. While the official holiday is commemorated on the third Monday of January, the URI celebration customarily takes place during the second full week of the University semester to encourage maximum participation. All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.