Today, January 20th, we stand at the intersection of two notable events: the commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the inauguration of the 47th President of the United States. This juxtaposition of events invites us to reflect on the journey of our nation, the lessons we have learned, and the actions we must take to build a more inclusive and equitable future for the generations to come.
Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time to honor the life, legacy, and leadership of a man who dedicated his life to the pursuit of freedom, equality, and justice. Dr. King’s tireless work during the Civil Rights Movement laid the foundation for the progress we have celebrated over the last several decades.
Dr. King taught us that how we treat people – matters. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just concepts, they are principles that demand action. On this day, let us recommit to the ideals he championed: ideals that unite us despite our differences, ideals for treating all people with kindness and dignity, while continuously striving for a society where equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
The Lessons of Progress
On January 20, 1986, Martin Luther King Jr. Day was first observed as a national holiday, following President Ronald Regan signing it into law in 1983.
On January 29, 2009, President Barack Obama’s first piece of legislation as president was to sign into law the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act. This landmark legislation, named after a woman who courageously fought against pay discrimination, underscores the importance of fairness and equity in the workplace.
A Call to Action
As we witness the Inauguration of the 47th President today, let us draw inspiration from Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s words:
“Fight for the things you care about but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
Ruth’s words are powerful, hopeful and inspiring. They hold the audacity of hope AND the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr’s dream.
Liberty Bell, Philadelphia, PA
The image above of the Liberty Bell with Independence Hall in the background, is a poignant symbol of today’s significance. The Liberty Bell represents the ideals of freedom and justice, while Independence Hall serves as a reminder of our nation’s enduring commitment to democracy. Together, they inspire us to dream boldly and act purposefully.
On this day of dual significance, let us dream and act. Let us carry forward Dr. King’s message of love, equality, and justice. Let us strive to make our actions a reflection of the values we hold dear. Whether we are hiring a new team member, mentoring a colleague, or simply engaging in our communities, our actions should exemplify the culture and character we wish to cultivate.
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At JWS Talent Advisors, we are committed to helping organizations find the right talent and supporting professionals in achieving their career goals. We believe that people are at the heart of progress, and we strive to create meaningful connections that drive growth and innovation.
✈️JWS Travel Fun Fact ✈️
The Liberty Bell photograph, taken by JWS Group Founder Julie Shipman an during a family trip to Philadelphia, PA, demonstrates our belief at JWS Talent Advisors that travel inspires new perspectives and connections. We guide individuals and organizations on their journeys, helping employees find the right career paths and employers discover the right talent, all while embracing the adventure of growth and discovery.