Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service (MLK Day) on January 15th stands as a tribute to a man whose words and actions urged us to dream of a world where diversity is celebrated, equity prevails, and inclusion and belonging within our beloved community is the thread that binds us all. 

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) form the pillars upon which MLK Month stands. They are not mere buzzwords but guiding principles that illuminate the path towards a fair and just society. Embracing diversity means acknowledging the richness that comes from different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. Equity demands the leveling of playing fields, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all, irrespective of inherent disparities. Inclusion goes beyond mere tolerance—it fosters an environment where every voice is not only heard but valued. 

As we enjoy a day “off” for the Federal holiday, we invite you to consider this a “day on” as Dr. King once said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'" (The Papers of Martin Luther King, Jr., Volume VI: Advocate of the Social Gospel, September 1948–March 1963). This question urges us to embody the spirit of service and volunteerism. Volunteering on this day is more than a gesture, by engaging in acts of kindness, service, and dedicating our time to causes that champion justice and human rights, we progress further toward the beloved community that Dr. King envisioned. 

In the spirit of Dr. King's dream, let this day be an opportunity to activate ourselves in celebration of our shared humanity, reflect on progress made, and acknowledge the work that remains as we enter the new year. 

Ways to get involved

Within the local community

  • Become a mentor.
  • Volunteer with organizations or programs that support those in need.
  • 4th Annual day of service events hosted by UC Davis School of Law will include a  donation drive, blood drive, and naturalization workshop assisting the Sacramento Mexican Consulate.

For UC Davis/Health employees and students 

Upcoming events

Open to the general public

  • Monday, January 15 at 8 a.m., “Walk with me - March for the Dream” - Flier with more information. 
  • Tuesday, January 16 from 12-1:30 p.m., “Healing Resistance: Trauma Healing and Social Change in the Era of Global Rupture” - Registration and flier 
  • Wednesday, January 17 from 6-7:30 p.m., “Virtual Community Building Circle”- Registration 
  • Friday, January 26 from 12-1:30 p.m., “Interprofessional Book Club: Hate in the Homeland: The New Global Far Right by Cynthia Miller-Idriss" - Registration
  • Thursday, February 29, AAFSA Black History Month Game night. More information 

For UC Davis Health employees

  • The African American Faculty and Staff Association (AAFSA) at UC Davis Health will be hosting the following events:
    • Thursday, January 18, AAFSA membership meeting will feature Dr. Ebony Lewis presenting the white paper she wrote on Anti-Blackness at UC Davis. More information
    • Thursday, February 29, AAFSA Black History Month Game night. More information 

Looking ahead

Principles of Community Week 2024 (February 12 - 16, 2024)
Be sure to save the date for the 2024 Principles of Community week.
During this celebratory week, there are a series of events and activities that celebrate and center around the Principles of Community. These celebrations reaffirm our commitment to the highest standards of civility and decency towards all. Events are both in-person and virtual.