Things You'll Need:
- Water and snacks
- Float, musical ensemble or other parade worthy group
- Cold weather clothing
- Your most comfortable shoes
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Step 1
Write to the parade organizers at NYC & Company, 810 Seventh Ave, New York, NY 10019, USA. Request a parade entry form to be sent to you. Alternatively, call the organizer at (212)397-8222 to request your entry form.
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Step 2
Join in the parade with Boy Scouts, musicians, civil rights activists and other marchers to commemorate the nation's greatest Civil Rights leader. Before Dr. King was assassinated, this parade honored veterans. Many vets still take part in the parade and support Dr. King's message of non-violence.
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Step 3
Keep your ears open for other, informal events happening after the parade. Some years see small groups of activists marching in front of companies that have illegally laid off hundreds of workers or in front of historic sites that have relevance to civil rights.
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Step 1
Head to New York's Convention Center on Martin Luther King Day (the third Monday in January) and take part in the free memorial event that can include speeches, dancers, an interfaith service and other offerings.
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Step 2
Join New York's Martin Luther King Day volunteer movement that complements the efforts of King supporters in other U.S. cities. The motto is "A Day On, Not a Day Off," and emphasizes the need for community service from all who care to help.
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Step 3
Remember that Civil Rights refer to the equality of every subjugated group and this can include women, African Americans, children, the mentally ill, modern immigrants and other groups clamoring to be heard and recognized. Prepare to join in this parade surrounded by people of all races, creeds and persuasions.
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Step 1
Book a night or two at the Taj Pierre, a hotel located at the intersection where New York's Martin Luther King Parade begins (see Resources below). Other nearby hotels include the Hotel Parker Meridien, the Melrose Hotel, Habitat Hotel, the Warwick Hotel and the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers. There is also a Comfort Inn Midtown about 15 blocks away for a more affordable option.
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Step 2
Plan a day to see the Metropolitan Museum, Central Park (despite winter temperatures) and other sights, since you will be centrally located in mid-town and on the border of the park.
