TD Stories: Why the MLK Day of Service is so Important to TD Colleagues
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. dedicated his life to the service of helping those who suffered discrimination of every form obtain equal rights in the U.S. It was his devotion to that cause that inspired the late Congressman John Lewis and late Senator Harris Wofford, allies of MLK, to introduce the King Holiday and Service Act.
This legislation signed by President Bill Clinton in 1994 made the MLK federal holiday a “day on, not a day off” to encourage American to participate in activities that help the community at large. It is the only federal holiday that is designated as a day of service.
The call to action for MLK Day, which will be commemorated on Monday, January 15, is one that TD Bank colleagues have taken to heart. Throughout the bank’s footprint from Maine to Florida, colleagues are volunteering and participating at events, including participation at the International African American Museum’s “IAAM KING: A MLK Day Celebration” in Charleston, South Carolina. The event features a parade and remarks to honor MLK, along with a celebration with music, food trucks and vendors. TD is also a sponsor of the Boston Children’s Chorus Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute concert on Monday.
“Caring for our communities with a focus on inclusivity and empowerment is something that is deeply embedded into our culture at TD,” said Shelley Sylva, TD Bank’s Head of US Corporate Citizenship. “We know that people and businesses across America are facing unprecedented economic challenges; 56 years after the death of Dr. King, Black communities are still bearing a disproportionate share of these challenges. It’s clear there is much work to do as we pave the way toward equity and sustainable economic growth for all.”
Among the events for MLK Day is TD’s sponsorship of free admission to the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia on Monday. The center is hosting events to honor MLK’s lifelong dedication to justice, equality, and service for the greater good, including financial education classes presented by TD Bank volunteers.
