John Conyers III on the legacy of MLK Jr. Day

WBUR | By Here & Now Newsroom

Published January 19, 2026 at 11:59 AM EST

An undated photo of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. (AP Photo)

The U.S. began observing Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday as a national holiday 40 years ago.

Here & Now‘s Indira Lakshmanan speaks with John Conyers III, the son of the congressman who was integral in the fight to create the holiday, about how the legacy of Dr. King has evolved and remained relevant today.

This article was originally published on WBUR.org.

Related Content

Italian fashion designer Valentino dies at 93

Maison Tran

Garavani built one of the most recognizable luxury brands in the world. His clients included royalty, Hollywood stars, and first ladies.
Sheinbaum reassures Mexico after US military movements spark concern

The Associated Press

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum quelled concerns on Monday about two recent movements of the U.S. military in the vicinity of Mexico that have the country on edge since the attack on Venezuela.
Minneapolis mayor calls for 'peace and order,' and ICE out of city

Karyn Miller-Medzon, Robin Young

Active duty soldiers have been put on standby in Alaska for possible deployment to the city, and the National Guard has been activated, but not yet deployed.
Massachusetts church that burned down in suspected hate crime reopens for MLK Jr. day

Here & Now Newsroom

This Jan. 19 will be the first Martin Luther King Day since the building reopened.
What to know about Trump's 'Board of Peace'

Here & Now Newsroom

The charter for the board, which was obtained by NPR, says permanent member countries must donate at least $1 billion each, with Trump acting as chairman.

You make NHPR possible.

NHPR is nonprofit and independent. We rely on readers like you to support the local, national, and international coverage on this website. Your support makes this news available to everyone.

Give today. A monthly donation of $5 makes a real difference.