A person walks past a large mural of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. on the side of a diner. The mural was painted by James Crespinel, and later restored, along Martin Luther King Jr. Way in Seattle. AP Photo/Elaine Thompson.

America knows Martin Luther King Jr. for his commitment to racial equity—but his impassioned work for economic and social justice is lesser known. At Plymouth Housing, we understand that the causes of homelessness often cross racial, economic, and social lines. Because of historic and ongoing systemic racism, Black people, Indigenous people, and other People of Color experience homelessness at disproportionately high rates. We believe that our work to provide permanent, safe, and supportive housing is an inherent part of King’s vision of a just society. King’s example, in addition to the work of Coretta Scott King, and many other activists and leaders of color, continues to guide us in our work to end homelessness and address its causes.

Here’s a few ways to connect with community and/or engage in racial equity this month:

Read:
– “In Honor of Dr. King: Exploring the Connection Between Homelessness, Employment, and Civil Rights” (National Alliance to End Homelessness)
– “Where to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2023 in the Seattle area” (The Seattle Times)
– “ArtSEA: Honoring MLK Day with Seattle art” (Crosscut)

In-person events to attend:
– The Northwest African American Museum is hosting King Day 2023 on January 16, with inclusive programming from 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
– On January 25, United Way of King County continues their Advancing Racial Equity series, with guest speakers Doug Baldwin, Laura Clise, and Efrem Fesaha.