The Legacy of Stevie Wonder’s ‘Happy Birthday’ Creating a message of unity, and similarities between all of us was a key in turning this song into the powerhouse moment it ended up being. Wonder started the campaign for Martin Luther King Jr. Day in early 1981, understanding that such a massive event would help facilitate progress towards MLK’s dream of integration. Many found the idea for MLK Day preposterous, and with racism still running rampant throughout the country, it was no easy task to get the job done. However, Wonder stayed steadfast in his mission and belief that it was an important acknowledgement that must be made in order for the country to move forward as one. Wonder used his song “Happy Birthday” to popularize the campaign, and continued his fight for the holiday, holding the Rally for Peace Press Conference in 1981. President Ronald Reagan approved the creation of the holiday, officially signing it into existence on November 2, 1983. Seen below is Reagan and MLK’s widow Coretta at the bill-signing ceremony.
The first official Martin Luther King Jr.
