Source: Courtesy / BLK

As Martin Luther King Jr. Day coincides with the presidential inauguration this year, Washington, DC, finds itself at the center of heightened tensions. To address these concerns and prioritize the well-being of its community, the leading dating and social app for the Black community, BLK, just launched #BLKFreedomWeekend. Read more about the incentives being offered to Black DC residents inside.

BLK announced its newest initiative ahead of MLK Day and the upcoming inauguration. This initiative offers Black residents of DC the chance to escape the chaos with flight credits to destinations of their choice.

According to a new survey conducted by BLK:

• 80 percent of Black respondents in the DC metro area feel anxious, concerned, or angry about the upcoming inauguration.
• 59 percent cited potential violence or unrest as their primary safety concern.
• 41 percent expressed a preference to leave the city during the weekend to avoid the anticipated turmoil.

For many, the memory of the January 6th insurrection still lingers, compounding fears about safety and unrest during this charged weekend. Coupled with the significance of honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, Black DC residents are seeking a way to celebrate in peace.

“Dr. King’s vision of freedom includes the right to prioritize our own peace and joy,” Jonathan Kirkland, Head of Brand and Marketing at BLK, shared in a statement. “With #BLKFreedomWeekend, we’re offering Black DC residents the opportunity to step away from the chaos and reclaim this important holiday in a way that feels meaningful to them.”

As part of the campaign, BLK will select 10 winners from its DC metro user base to receive flight credits. The winners will have the freedom to choose how and where they wish to spend the holiday. Whether that means visiting loved ones, exploring new destinations, or finding a peaceful retreat, this is an exciting offer for those residents looking for a healthy escape from the chaos.

Participants are encouraged to share their experiences on social media, reflecting on how they honored Dr. King’s legacy in a personal and restorative way. This initiative aims to create a moment of liberation during a weekend when stress could overshadow celebration.

“Our survey highlights the emotional toll this weekend takes on our community,” Kirkland said. “By giving Black residents the chance to leave the city, we hope to foster an environment of empowerment and freedom, honoring Dr. King’s legacy in a way that aligns with his vision of equality, justice, and joy.”

Be sure to visit BLK’s social media for more details.