ALCOAST 008/22 - JAN 2022 SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES ON MLK DAY

R 102028Z JAN 22
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 008/22
SSIC 5350
SUBJ: SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES ON MLK DAY
1. Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s question to a Montgomery,
Alabama audience in 1957 embodies his legacy and holds relevance
today: "What are you doing for others?" Observed annually on the
third Monday in January, the nationwide observance in his name was
signed into law in 1983 and is the only federal holiday designated
as a National Day of Service. In 2022, MLK Day falls on
January 17th. The theme, "Remember! Celebrate! Act! A Day On,
Not a Day Off," inspires volunteerism and encourages all Americans
to work to transform and improve their communities.
2. Widely considered a leading voice for service and self-sacrifice,
Dr. King consistently messaged that all people - regardless of
outward characteristics, beliefs, lifestyle preferences, or diverse
identities - are equal members of the human family. His non-violent
activism, speeches, and writings helped inspire the Nation to the
principle that all people must be treated equally. Dr. King's spirit
and legacy of respect embodies the Coast Guard's Core Values and
reflects the military ethos of looking out for others.
3. Often our units are woven into the fabric of communities, many in
remote locations. Coast Guard volunteer efforts may not always make
headlines but are important and impactful to the communities in
which we serve. Reported examples of our members providing food
assistance and distribution, supporting job readiness initiatives,
conducting collections for supplies or coats for schools, helping
build or repair housing and playgrounds, or implementing
improvements in public parks, are inspiring. The investment of our
time for the betterment of all makes us "Stronger Together".
4. Dr. King's messages of non-discrimination and respect are
embedded in our Coast Guard. We value the different experiences and
backgrounds among our Service members, civilian employees, family
members, Auxiliarists, and the public we serve. All members of the
Coast Guard workforce are encouraged to dedicate time to support
their communities through local service on this holiday and
throughout the year. During the COVID-19 global pandemic, please
follow guidelines for in-person gatherings and use remote
collaboration platforms, websites, newsletters, or social media to
celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
5. For more information about the national day of service, visit
(Copy and Paste URL Below into Browser)

www.MLKDay.gov

To learn more about Dr. King, go to
(Copy and Paste URL Below into Browser)

www.thekingcenter.org

6. POC: COMDT (CG-00H), Mr. Juan Torres, 202-372-4594,
Juan.L.Torres@uscg.mil.
7. ADM Karl L. Schultz, Commandant (CCG), sends.
8. Internet release is authorized.