Honoring A Legacy by Helping and Caring
Forty-two years ago, President Ronald Reagan signed legislation designating the third Monday in January as a federal holiday honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whom many consider the most influential African American civil rights leader in the 1960s. Dr. King embraced and advocated peaceful means to achieving equality for all citizens, regardless of race. He was also instrumental in the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act, laws that advanced equality and opportunity for all Americans.
The first nationwide observance of Martin Luther King, Jr., Day occurred in 1986, 23 years after Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech linked civil rights to fundamental values set forth in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution and became one of the most defining moments in the American civil rights movement.
Today, the annual commemoration of Dr. King’s life and achievements has evolved into a National Day of Service to celebrate Dr. King’s belief in service and proactive citizenship as ways to solve social problems and create inclusive communities distinguished by respect, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive. Those principles mirror core values at the heart of our Hancock Whitney organization, 125-year-old founding principles that inspire our associates to do right and do good to make a difference.
Doing Right Today and Always
This year, as we remember Dr. King, we encourage every person in each community to carry a message of caring and hope to others every day. Too many people face hardship and loss, often imposed by circumstances far beyond their control. On the January 20 National Day of Service paying tribute to Dr. King — and every day during the year — let us strive individually and collectively to share the compassionate spirit of Dr. King’s vision with those in need of a helping hand and a kind heart.
Shortly after receiving his Nobel Prize in 1964, Dr. King spoke at Oberlin College. In that address, he said, "The time is always right to do what is right," articulating the cornerstone philosophy of his commitment to service.
When we all work together to do the right thing whenever we can and wherever we can, we can build a better today and a brighter tomorrow.