It's been a long time since Washington has had as much activism as seen in the first few weeks of 2006. We've all become tired of the injustice fed down out throats by this right-wing government – and we're up in arms. Maybe this anger and frustration will be the impetus for massive activism and voter participation – because we need to take our government back. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. would be proud.

"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."
Martin Luther King Jr., Letter from Birmingham Jail, April 16, 1963

DC has more than its share of MLK Day activities. Here is but a sampling of ways for us to join together this weekend and honor King's spirit.

What: "Walking Montgomery: The 50th Anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott" – a roundtable discussion featuring Montgomery activists, a dramatic presentation of MLK's address on the first day of the boycott (Dec. 5, 1955), and a sing-along of freedom songs with original members of the Montgomery Gospel.
When: Saturday, Jan. 14, from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
Where: National Museum of American History, Behring Center, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue
More info: 202/633-1000 or americanhistory.si.edu/events

What: "10th Annual Poetry Extravaganza" – the program will include dance and music along with poetry. Dolores Kendrick, the poet laureate of the District of Columbia, will preside over the festivities.
When: Saturday, Jan. 14, from 2 to 5 p.m.
Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Library (901 G St. NW)
More info: Eleanor Dore at eleanor.dore@dc.gov or 202/727-1281

What: "Building the Beloved Community: Stopping Violence and Injustice" – a multi-religious service in honor of King.
When: Sunday, Jan. 15; service at 3 p.m., reception at 4:30 p.m.
Where: Israel Baptist Church (1251 Saratoga Ave. NE, Rhode Island Avenue Metro.)
More info: The Rev. Clark Lobenstine, 202/234-6300, ext. 201

What: "The Birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr." – DC Poets Against the War, followed by an open mic.
When: Sunday, Jan. 15, at 4 p.m.
Where: Busboys and Poets (14th and V Streets NW, Langston Room)

What: "5th Annual Black Voices for Peace National Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration: Dr. King's Big Organizing Workshop" – with, as special guests, African-American mothers of slain soldiers in Iraq and a screening of the film "MLK/The Making of a Holiday," featuring Stevie Wonder.
When: Monday, Jan. 16; film at 1:30 p.m., main program from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Where: Plymouth Congregational Church (5301 North Capitol St.)
More info: 202/232-5690 or www.blacksforpeace.org