The MLK Fortnite 'March Through Time' event meme originated in August 2021 when Epic Games and TIME Studios launched an educational experience within Fortnite to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The internet quickly latched onto the inherent absurdity of seeing players dressed as pop-culture icons like Rick Sanchez, Thanos, or Xenomorphs standing respectfully (or dancing) while the 'I Have a Dream' speech played. While intended as a serious tribute, the visual juxtaposition became a viral sensation, symbolizing the 'metaverse' era's strange tendency to blend somber history with commercialized gaming skins. It is frequently used to highlight tone-deaf corporate collaborations or moments of extreme digital irony.