The United States observed Martin Luther King Jr. Day under extraordinary security conditions two days before the presidential inauguration. In Washington, D.C., thousands of National Guard troops patrolled empty streets as the city remained locked down. Access to the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial, and surrounding areas was restricted to credentialed personnel.
President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris participated in a national day of service event in Philadelphia, packing food boxes for families affected by the pandemic. Biden referenced King’s legacy in brief remarks, urging unity “not just in words, but in action.”
In Atlanta, wreaths were laid at King’s tomb at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. The King Center livestreamed its annual commemorative ceremony, featuring speeches by Bernice King and former President Barack Obama. Most events were virtual due to COVID-19 precautions.
Public health officials urged Americans to avoid travel. The TSA reported only 500,000 screenings nationwide, a fraction of pre-pandemic levels. Law enforcement reported no major incidents.