MLK Observance 2024

The MLK Day 2024 campaign, Unbending Resolve; Catalyst for Change features an image of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. resting against a striped background.

A Message from the Strategist

The theme for this year’s NIH MLK Day, “Unbending Resolve; Catalyst for Change,” encapsulates the tireless efforts of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I am inspired by the enduring wisdom of Dr. King. His words remind us that:

“Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability but comes through continuous struggle.”

Dr. King’s quote emphasizes the significance of perseverance and equity, which we can apply in our workplace. Meaningful change requires persistence and our collective responsibility to help foster a more robust culture of inclusivity at the NIH.

Join us this month as we continue to learn from the past, access the current, and look to improve the future. These are the precursors to creating and maintaining a workplace culture where every individual can contribute to their full potential, align with Dr. King's vision of the 'Beloved Community,' and ensure that our organization reflects the rich diversity of our nation.

Kiana Atkins

Kiana Atkins
Principal Strategist
Black Employment Portfolio

A Message from Leadership

Dear Colleagues,

This year marks a profound milestone — the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act. As we also draw closer to Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) Day, this is a time to reflect not only on pivotal events of the past but also on the enduring legacy of Dr. King’s vision.

NIH’s theme for this year’s MLK Day, “Unbending Resolve; Catalyst for Change,” encapsulates Dr. King’s tireless efforts and commitment to inspire change on a national scale. Standing at the forefront of the civil rights movement, his messages echo through time, offering valuable lessons for us all, even today. Dr. King’s principles serve as a reminder for us to treat every individual with dignity and respect.

As we embark on a new year, let us reflect on who we are and how we can be better advocates for change. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Strategic Plan and to continue to reflect and expand your knowledge through training and information to enhance your commitment to DEIA.

To help with your journey, we invite you to explore our 2024 MLK Campaign, which features educational content on resiliency and determination. We also invite you to be a catalyst for change by joining an Employee Resource Group (ERG) at NIH. ERGs provide an opportunity to connect with colleagues, foster a more profound sense of community, and serve as a segue to learning through shared experiences.

Please visit EDI’s website, explore the blog posts, follow the office on LinkedIn and X, and watch EDI’s YouTube channel to stay informed on the exciting things that are happening this month.

Sincerely,

Monica M. Bertagnolli, M.D.

Monica M. Bertagnolli, M.D.
Director, National Institutes of Health

Kevin D. Williams, Esq.

Kevin D. Williams, Esq.
Director, EDI

Featured Blogs

Black professionals confidentially walk out of an office.

Perseverance and Equity in the Workplace

Black male scientist peers through a microscope in a lab.

Dr. Martin Luther King’s Impact on the Field of Science

Photo of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr by Flip Schulke/ Corbis via Getty Images
“

Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.
— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,
Letter from Birmingham Jail (1963)

”

About the Artwork

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1963 from the National Archives.

Our 2024 MLK Day artwork displays the gentle power and vibrancy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that inspires generations to peacefully effectuate change. The repetition of diagonal lines intends to depict movement and evoke a call to action.

Source: Flip Schulke/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images