“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
As we prepare to mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the U.S. on Monday, these words from the civil rights champion remain as timely as ever.
As a company, we have been at our best when we have stood up for the social issues of the day — whether integrating our factories before it was required by law or advocating for equal rights for the LGBTQ community — even when it was unpopular. Our commitment to never choosing easy over right is part of what makes us who we are, and that isn’t changing.
We are also passionate about supporting tomorrow’s leaders who are making an outsized impact in their communities and defending civil rights in all forms. That’s why we’ve made investments in our Pioneers in Justice and supporting the social justice work of those like Jose Antonio Vargas.
On this national day of service (and all year long), we encourage our employees to get involved by supporting causes that are meaningful to them, with donations matched by the Levi Strauss Foundation.
This Saturday, January 21, employees are also being encouraged to join LS&Co. in the Women’s March, a global movement to bring together everyone who stands for human rights and diversity.
King’s vision of a world of racial equality and social justice for all — and his dedication to bringing it to reality — continues to be an inspiration today. There’s still work to be done, but we’re up for the challenge.
