Today is the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, and for some reason, it seems more necessary than ever to honor the slain civil rights leader and his important messages of peace and racial equality.

Perhaps it’s due to this week’s end of the presidency of Barack Obama, a son of Hawaii and the nation’s first black president. Perhaps it’s because of the divisive presidential election we just went through, and uncertainty about what’s ahead. Perhaps it’s the spate of senseless shootings in recent years that have embroiled black communities and police forces.

Whatever the reasons, take the time to honor King and and pay forward his legacy, in ways big and small.

Homeless relief efforts move forward

When the state imposed new rules for homeless shelters, requiring more sleeping space and additional toilets, some providers cried foul, saying it would reduce the number of available beds. The Lighthouse Outreach Center in Waipahu said it couldn’t comply and is expected to close.

Still, there’s some progress. The state on Thursday awarded $13 million in new contracts that Gov. David Ige says will increase the number of beds to 3,761. And the new rules are being tweaked. Yes, helping Hawaii’s homeless is difficult — but persistence will pay off, bit by bit.