Hilltown Families 
Annual MLK Jr. Community Celebrations in Western MA
Annual MLK Jr. Celebrations in Western MA
Martin Luther King Jr. spoke out against civil injustice and fought for the civil rights of black Americans. His work to create a just and peaceful society is a reminder of how important civic engagement and service is in sparking positive social change and the formation of ethical communities that champion diversity, openness, compassion, and solidarity. In honor of Martin Luther King Jr.’s work, many organizations and volunteers dedicate themselves to a day of community service in honor of his commitment to social justice.
On the 3rd Monday in January, the celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day offers families a three-day weekend – a treasure that can be used to engage in meaningful community-based learning opportunities. Families can take advantage of this special day honoring Dr. King’s work and lasting impact on our country by taking part in community celebrations, giving their time to be part of a day of service, or attending educational screenings and performances.
BERKSHIRE COUNTY
Berkshire Community College
PITTSFIELD – BCC hosts a day of service to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with different community projects for volunteers to choose from, such as cooking and serving a community meal, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, or assisting staff at a community center to run activities for kids.
Northern Berkshire’s MLK Day of Service
NORTH ADAMS – Part of a statewide effort to engage communities in service, this annual event offers families the opportunity to participate in one of 17 different meaningful service projects, both on the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts campus in North Adams and within the surrounding community.
FRANKLIN COUNTY
Greenfield Community College
GREENFIELD – GCC offers free family activities in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY
Western Massachusetts division of the American Friends Service Committee
NORTHAMPTON -Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Celebration happens in Northampton, featuring learning opportunities for community members of all ages. Past activities have included a walking tour of historic Florence, a children’s program integrating stories, songs and activities for peace and justice, and a banner raising to promote the Black Lives Matter movement.
HAMPDEN COUNTY
Springfield Celebrates Dr. King
SPRINGFIELD – Every year the city of Springfield hosts a Dr. King Day Celebration as a free event open to the public. This celebration honors the legacy of Dr. King.
Download our Jan/Feb edition of Learning Ahead: Cultural Itinerary for Western Massachusetts for embedded learning opportunities found in cultural resources that exist within the geography, history, and cultural traditions of Western Massachusetts.
