Cultural and Community Engagement. Division of Multicultural Affairs. Martin Luther King Jr. Human Rights Commission

Governor Norm Bangerter signed an executive order on July 1, 1991 establishing the Martin Luther King Jr. Human Rights (MLK) Commission. Governor Gary R. Herbert reissued the executive order on August 28, 2013 and the Utah State Legislature codified the commission into state statute during the 2019 session. The purpose of the Commission is to promote Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by: encouraging appropriate ceremonies and activities commemorating the federal and state holiday, which occurs on the third Monday of January each year; seeking to involve the public and private sectors in promoting diversity, equality, and human rights; providing recommendations and assistance to government entities and private organizations regarding the observance of the holiday; coordinating efforts with state residents of diverse backgrounds and with private organizations regarding the observance of the holiday; and partnering with educational institutions to assist schools in promoting appropriate events to honor human rights and the holiday.