Wishing You a Meaningful Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Jan 19, 2026

Today, Jan. 19, NATCA honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a leader and advocate for social justice, nonviolent resistance, and the power of collective action. Dr. King played a key role in the American civil rights movement from the mid-1950s until his assassination in 1968.

While best known for his tireless efforts in the civil rights movement, Dr. King saw the civil rights movement and the union movement as natural allies, "As I have said many times, and believe with all my heart, the coalition that can have the greatest impact in the struggle for human dignity here in America is that of the Negro and forces of labor, because their fortunes are so closely intertwined," said Dr. King.

Dr. King went on to warn that enemies of racial justice were also enemies of union, denouncing 'right to work' laws as a scam, "In our glorious fight for civil rights, we must guard against being fooled by false slogans, such as right to work," King said in 1961.

During his final days, King traveled to Memphis to stand in solidarity with striking African American sanitation workers who belonged to AFSCME Local 1733. Read more about King's work with AFSCME here.

NATCA understands the importance of unions in guaranteeing fair wages, benefits, and good working conditions. We're proud of our members for advocating to improve our professions and protect the National Airspace System.

As we reflect on Dr. King's life and message, let's commit to uplifting each other, advocating for our community, and contributing positively to the world.