Our Statement on MLK Day:

On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, in recognition and remembrance here at Ignite, we’re honoring the ideas and actions that Dr. King championed for a more just, equitable, and equal society. Dr. King's vision for civil rights and human rights was holistic and included fair and abundant housing, employment for all who wish to work, and the critical investment and involvement of youth and young adults—a fight that’s continued through the powerful work happening at Ignite and other organizations across Chicago and beyond.

Dr. King will always be remembered for his dream of a better and kinder world. Today we honor the strides he catalyzed for the civil rights movement, his part in the passage of the Fair Housing Act and the Humphrey-Hawkins Full Employment Act of 1978, along with his advocacy towards a universal base income, bringing light and transformative steps towards equality for those experiencing homelessness and poverty front of mind.

Today and every day, we have the opportunity to realize Dr. King’s dream. With hope, learning, community, courage, and action we can create a future in which his ideas may be fulfilled, giving youth and young adults the tools and opportunities they need to create the life they imagine.

Find more information on Dr. King’s thoughts and endeavors centered on community, unfair housing practices, and more below.

• Check out MLK’s proposal on full employment: https://tinyurl.com/mtew9j39
• See more research into government provided full employment: https://tinyurl.com/4knje7av
• Explore MLK’s concept of a “beloved community”: https://tinyurl.com/bdd2jkub
• Take a look at MLK’s work on fair and equitable housing: https://tinyurl.com/4cztjjn2

Take actions that fulfill Dr. King’s legacy, in work, community and life. Activate community, volunteer, and encourage others you know to participate in one activity or to make one commitment towards a brighter future—making Dr. King’s dream a reality.