Ten years after the death of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, his widow Lonnie Ali is calling for a global "Day of Compassion" to honor his legacy of service and kindness. Ali, who passed away on June 3, 2016, after a prolonged battle with Parkinson's disease, is being commemorated this week at the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky. The center is encouraging people worldwide to participate in the anniversary by performing acts of service and care.

Lonnie Ali emphasized that her husband's impact extended far beyond his remarkable career as a three-time heavyweight champion and 1960 Olympic gold medalist. She stated that Ali lived by the mantra, "Service to others is the rent we pay for our room here on Earth," highlighting his daily commitment to kindness and empathy for those in need.

Known affectionately in his hometown as the "Louisville Lip," Ali rose from humble beginnings to become an international icon. His influence grew significantly in the 1960s as he became a prominent voice advocating for civil rights and opposing the Vietnam War, solidifying his position as one of history's most influential athletes.

The Muhammad Ali Center, with Lonnie Ali serving as lifetime director, aims for the "Day of Compassion" to evolve into an annual event promoting volunteerism and community service. Lonnie Ali expressed concern that the United States is "losing touch with our humanity and with each other," observing increasing polarization and a tendency for people to isolate themselves within like-minded groups.

In a critique of current political trends, Lonnie Ali urged political leaders to "lead with compassion" and condemned actions that she believes have weakened the 1965 Voting Rights Act. She argued that policies should aim to uplift communities rather than create barriers, stating, "You can’t have equal representation when you’re denying people voting rights."

Despite current societal divisions, Lonnie Ali finds hope in the collective spirit of Louisville, recalling the weeklong celebration of Ali's life in 2016. Thousands lined the streets for his funeral procession, and millions watched the service online, demonstrating a shared sense of community and remembrance.

Ali's enduring message of courage, faith, and service continues to resonate, evidenced by his appearance on a U.S. postage stamp. Lonnie Ali noted that his spirit connects with people from all walks of life, from royalty to ordinary fans who felt they knew his heart.

The Muhammad Ali Center continues to be a hub for preserving and promoting Ali's values. His former training camp in Deer Lake, Pennsylvania, has also been restored and opened to the public as a shrine, further ensuring that his legacy of strength, activism, and humanitarianism endures for future generations.