Martin Luther King Day: A Day On Not A Day Off!

January 21st celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the United States. It is a time to remember, reflect and respond to the call of that make a difference pioneer Dr. Martin Luther King!

King's wife, the late Coretta Scott King challenged us saying, "On this holiday, we commemorate the universal, unconditional love, forgiveness and nonviolence that empowered his revolutionary spirit." The King Center continues that challenge by admonishing us to look at Monday the 21st as a "Day On. . . Not A Day Off"

I can't think of a better way to look at it! Sure some of us may not have to go in to work, but perhaps you can take a few moments that day and study the life of Dr. King or volunteer your time at a community event or center. Truthfully, the parallels between the fight that Martin Luther King Jr. fought and those of the LGBT community are very much the same; equal rights, civil treatment, and safety, to name a few.

Thankfully groups like Equality Illinois adhere to that challenge by securing, protecting and defending the basic civil rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons in the state of Illinois. These are the folks who emulate Dr. King's mission and passion for our rights.

To that end we at chicagopride.com want to remind you about the Equality Illinois Gala taking place February 2, 2008 . This fundraiser is a terrific opportunity to Make A Difference right here in Chicago. Take it from m the Equality Illinois Gala is a blast! Everyone dresses up for a great meal, inspiring speeches, fabulous libations and a great dance floor. EVERYONE will be there!! If you would like to attend, tickets are on sale here on the Chicagopride.com front page or by going directly to the Equality Illinois website

I want to challenge you this month to celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. in committing to be a person of equality , diversity , and care for those around you