Some administrators and students believe that canceling classes on MLK day is another three-day weekend where students will frequent bars and go home and do nothing ("Officials cancel MLK classes," Feb. 10).

After years of student effort toward having a symbolic "day off," it would be a shame for students to validate this pessimism and waste the perfect opportunity to educate themselves about human rights.

Next year's Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration on Penn State's campus has the potential to be the largest in our history.

With the leadership of many students and organizations, we can make our MLK celebration a new Penn State tradition.

For those who feel less motivated, participation in the MLK holiday could be as simple as watching a documentary on the Civil Rights Movement, reading a book on King or taking time to explain tolerance to a young child.

Students who participate in service or rallies in their home communities should communicate this participation to fellow students, faculty and administrators. Furthermore, celebrating the only federal holiday specifically honoring an African American should not be limited to the Monday after King's birthday.

There are many opportunities for students to organize educational and service activities for the entire week and even participate more in the Black History Month events currently taking place.