As we head into the long weekend and prepare to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, we pause to remember that his legacy is not only something we reflect on—it is something we are called to carry forward through action, service, and an unwavering pursuit of justice.
Dr. King’s vision for dignity, equality, and freedom continues to live on in the Independent Living Movement and in the ongoing fight for disability rights. The belief that people with disabilities have the right to access, opportunity, and control over their own lives is deeply aligned with his call for justice and human dignity for all. At its core, the Independent Living Movement affirms that equity is not optional—it is essential.
At Independence Now, this time of reflection inspires us to reshare the story of Deborah Jackson, our former Director of Independent Living, whose life and work powerfully carried forward Dr. King’s legacy. Remembered with deep respect and gratitude, Deborah was guided by his words, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” She devoted her life to advocacy—fighting for access to housing, transportation, employment, and essential supports—so that people with disabilities could live independently, with dignity and choice. Her impact endures in the countless lives she touched and the systems she helped change.
Like many businesses and organizations, Independence Now will be closed on Monday in observance of MLK Day. But even as our offices pause, the meaning of the day continues. MLK Day is not just a day off—it is a day on. It is a time to reflect on how Dr. King’s legacy carries forward through everyday acts of advocacy, service, and care for one another, and a reminder that each of us has a role to play in advancing equity and justice in our communities.
We will reopen on Tuesday, continuing our work rooted in service, inclusion, and the belief that justice must be accessible to all.
May we honor Dr. King’s legacy not only in remembrance, but by recognizing and uplifting all those who continue to show up—through service, advocacy, and everyday acts that move justice forward.
