Every year, there are nationwide celebrations and reflections about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He dedicated himself to a non-violent movement and made an appeal to abolish segregation. But, a recent backlash hit the airwaves this week with a verbal attack on John Lewis, 30-year Congressman, civil rights legend and respected freedom rider. His crime? He was labeled as “all talk”… Unfortunately, very inaccurate. So, this celebratory weekend…
…gives pause, an opportunity to reiterate the contributions of civil rights leadership. What can be done? First, no response is even warranted to address the belittling of the merit of Lewis’ 60-year civil rights career. Dr. King taught the principle of fighting back with love. Here’s the opportune time to do so.
Also, commemorative events acknowledge the accomplishments of Dr. King along with living legends like Congressman Lewis. The list might be too long to name, but leaders hosting events and advocates along with them should reiterate the achievements of human rights leaders. Here’s just a glimpse of Congressman Lewis’ apparent “all talk” contributions and MUCH more!
As people gather around the nation to pause, pray, and join hands, it must be done so with a fervent commitment to respect history. Those who sacrificed their livelihood and risked safety should be recognized. People like Congressman Lewis who marched and were been beaten and arrested in the name of the right to vote must be appreciated.
In most parts of the nation, businesses and daily routines pause to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. With that, people should be lockstep vowing to do more, be more, and double-down again to fight for the legacy left by civil rights icons. If we do not, then who will?
