MLK Day in the Crossfire: Activists Push to reclaim King’s Legacy Amid Policy Battles

As the U.S. marks the 40th federal Martin Luther King Jr. Day, activists push to reclaim King’s radical legacy through protests and service, while critics highlight Trump-era moves to roll back diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Policy changes like ending federal free park admissions on MLK Day and other civil-rights rollbacks have fed fears of regression, even as many King Day events continue and organizations such as the NAACP and Movement for Black Lives plan actions. Some cancellations cite budget or safety concerns, and the debate centers on whether to honor King’s legacy with bold, race-conscious activism or a more restrained, character-based approach amid ongoing political tensions.