Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and the Day of Racial Healing

Talking About Race and Racial Justice

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day comes on the third Monday in January every year, with the National Day of Racial Healing following the next day. These events bring with them valuable opportunities to facilitate important discussions with students and peers about race and racial justice.

The Michigan Learning Channel has compiled a list of ways to start those conversations. Here, you’ll find resources for students of all ages.

For Teachers

PBS Teachers’ Lounge

Articles by teachers and educators to build a community that values new ideas and inspiration for the classroom.

See articles related to teaching and discussing race on PBS Learning Media.

Talking to Young Children About Race and Racism

Tips and resources to help caregivers have a meaningful conversation with young children about race, racism, and being anti-racist.

Find the list at PBS KIDS For Parents.

For Preschool and Elementary School Students

Sesame Workshop

The residents of Sesame Street offer videos, printables, and more for young children to learn about race.

Find resources at
Sesame Street in Communities.

Reading List for Ages 6-12

Fiction and nonfiction books about Civil Rights leaders, standing up for what you believe in, and helping others.

See the full list on the Reading Rockets website.

For Middle School and High School Students

Extra Credit Special Episode: Martin Luther King, Jr.

Travel with students from the Detroit School of the Arts and learn about Martin Luther King, Jr. and his legacy.

Watch the episode on demand anytime.

Extra Credit: Black History

Explore the history, heritage, and culture of Black Americans. Content partners include One Detroit, Detroit Institute of Arts, NASA, The Great American Read, WUCF & Meet The Helpers, American Black Journal & Marcus Green, WCMU Media, and StoryCorps. Featuring student host, Iyan.

Watch the episode on demand anytime.

Documentary Specials

You can stream 1964: The Fight for a Right and more on PBS.org.