Idaho Human Rights Day

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired millions of Americans to participate in non-violent demonstrations to support the ideals of equality for all, and was a motivating force behind a civil rights movement that had as its goal the creation of a society inclusive of all races, cultures and nationalities. The celebration of Dr. King’s birthday is intended as a time for all Americans to reaffirm their commitment to the basic principles that underlie our Constitution – equal treatment and justice for all.

Idaho enjoys a richness of diversity in its population, embracing many ethnic and racial groups as a part of both the state’s history and its future.

Idaho Human Rights Day is a state holiday recognized only in the U.S. state of Idaho. It was created on January 16, 2006 by then Governor and former United States Secretary of the Interior, Dirk Kempthorne. The holiday is celebrated simultaneously each year on the same day as Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The full name of this holiday in the state of Idaho is Martin Luther King, Jr. - Idaho Human Rights Day.

Both state and national observances of this day will focus on the importance of individual volunteerism and a commitment to community service as a way of breaking down social and economic barriers and bringing people together to focus on their common concerns and interests. The ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Idaho’s commitment to human rights are worthy of reflection and serve as a reminder that improving the quality of life for all members of society is everyone’s responsibility.

Source: wikipedia.org | idaho.gov

In 2026 Idaho Human Rights Day in USA falls on January 19.