For many Americans, the Fourth of July best symbolizes their independence. But for David Graves, that freedom is better celebrated by Martin Luther King Jr. Day -- a holiday he thinks is so important that the University should not hold classes today.

"It's a recognized holiday -- but not on this University," said Graves (junior-finance).

As in past years, the University has not canceled classes to celebrate the 66th birthday of the slain civil-rights leader. Although students are encouraged by the University to take advantage of educational programs about King throughout this week, only instructors can excuse them from attending classes.

"Now, we don't have an option. (If we did) then we could decide personally how we want to celebrate the holiday," Graves said. "I think we need to get away from the mainstream at times and to try something different."

But Bill Cross, professor of psychology and African American studies, said Penn State's decision not to cancel classes is the best way for the University to balance the concerns of all involved. If the University's atmosphere toward diversity was less positive, the need for a symbolic action -- such as canceling classes -- would be greater.

"The atmosphere seems very positive toward the King holiday," said Cross, who is holding class today. "The question then becomes, 'Is that the only way you can celebrate this person's memory and what he represented?' "

But Cross added that he hoped professors would not penalize students who want to participate in King-related activities.

"The only way the King holiday can have meaning is if a critical mass of people can celebrate it together," he said.

The Office of the President and the University's Department of Public Information received no complaints last week about Penn State's decision to hold classes today, said Christy Rambeau, assistant manager of the University's news bureau.

The decision is not intended to be disrespectful, Rambeau said, but the University thinks the best way to celebrate King's accomplishments is through the education process, classes and scheduled on-campus events.

"We think we should spend the time that way rather than letting everyone go to the mall," she said.

James Stewart, vice provost for educational equity, said he has never heard a cogent argument why classes should be canceled.

"The whole issue is that we should be celebrating what Martin Luther King stood for, not have a party," he said. "The emphasis is on getting involved instead of a passive celebration."

But Heather Bullard, co-president of the Martin Luther King Jr. interest house in Beaver Hall, said administrators may be generalizing too much about students' lack of interest in celebrating King's birthday.

"I really do think they should have more offered to the students to allow them to go out to learn about Dr. King," said Bullard (senior-management and international business). "I don't think Penn State does enough."

The normal school year only allows for three scheduled days off from classes: July Fourth, Labor Day and Memorial Day. Although University officials have the option of also canceling classes on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Rambeau said such a move would require a "long negotiation process."

Formerly, the University canceled late-afternoon classes on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to give students time to attend evening events. That practice stopped in January 1993 when events were scheduled later in the evening.

Erica Dean, also co-president of the Martin Luther King Jr. interest house, understands the University's decision because Penn State holds classes on other holidays celebrating individuals, such as President's Day.

Although Dean (junior-management science and information systems) said she wishes the campus would not hold classes on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, she would not push strongly for the University to change its decision.

But Rambeau said some students have a tougher time understanding the University's policy.

"Lots of people feel differently about how we celebrate different holidays," she said. "I think at the beginning there was some hesitating and misunderstanding about why the University handles it this way. The University does go out to celebrate Martin Luther King's accomplishments."