The clock tower at the top of Hempstead Town Hall was lit up and shined colors of red and green as a tribute to the life, legacy and values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The inaugural lighting took place on Jan. 15–the same day King was assassinated—and it was attended by residents as well as elected officials. King Jr. was a pivotal American Baptist minister, activist, and political philosopher who led the Civil Rights Movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. He championed racial equality and social justice through nonviolent civil disobedience, organizing key events like the 1963 March on Washington.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day was created on Nov. 2, 1983, when President Ronald Reagan signed the King Holiday Bill into law. It was first observed as a federal holiday on Jan. 20, 1986, and is celebrated annually on the third Monday of January.
“The values Dr. King stood for — unity, service, and equality — are values that continue to guide our community today,” Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti said. “Lighting the Hempstead Town Hall clock tower for the first time in recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is a powerful and lasting way to honor his legacy and reaffirm our commitment to bringing people together.”
