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How to Talk to Your Kids About Martin Luther King Jr.’s Life & Legacy

20 Jan 2025 By: Diane Gottsman

MLK Jr Day Quote

In the summer of 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered one of the most inspiring and thought-provoking speeches in American history. He called for racial equality, justice, and a fair and equal world for everyone, with a future filled with hope. How can we honor him today? How can we honor each other and show support, even when we may not always agree? In its simplest, yet powerful form, it’s showing respect for each other and living a life of character which has nothing to do with money, fame, power, or social status. There are many examples of bad behavior—it’s up to each one of us to make a difference. What can each of us do?

Get Involved

The many MLK parades happening around the nation are a great example of peaceful gatherings. Coming together peacefully and respectfully and honoring a leader is a wonderful example of a community united. Teach children that their participation and voice matter, and that one person can make a difference.

Discuss how people can gather in a crowd, be a part of a bigger effort, and show support without anger or violence.

Have Table Conversation

Prejudice and inequality still exist today. Talk about it at the dinner table and discuss how each family will address it when it comes up. Discuss what is not tolerable regarding language, behaviors, and peer pressure. Keep the conversation age-appropriate.

Encourage Empathy and Kindness

Discuss common scenarios that may come up at school or with friends and how to stand against discrimination and unkindness, showing support for those who are being singled out.  Ask your children for some examples and talk about what to do next time something happens.

Volunteer as a Family

Participate in local activities that align with MLK’s values and point them out. Working at the food bank, an animal shelter, or joining local leadership groups at your school are just a few ideas.

Celebrate Diversity

Select a different culture and plan activities to learn about their customs, food, and sports activities.

Share Your Own Stories

Every family has stories, good and bad, of experiences with injustice. Talk about them openly and how they have impacted your views. Discuss the positive influences and lessons you have learned.

For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go To” social and professional etiquette authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas. 

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Diane Gottsman

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and modern manners professional, sought out industry leader, television personality, accomplished speaker, Huffington Post blogger, author, and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in executive leadership and etiquette training. Diane is routinely quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, The BBC, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, Kiplinger, Huffington Post Canada, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. She is the resident etiquette expert for two popular morning talk shows, SA Living and Good Day Austin. She has been seen on The TODAY Show, HLN Headline News, WGN Chicago, and CBS Sunday Morning. Her clients range from university students to Fortune 500 companies and her workshops cover topics ranging from tattoos in the workplace to technology at the dinner table and the proper use of social media.