Martin Luther King, Jr.

Where were you on this day fifty years ago?  On this day, the world learned of the tragedy that took place in Memphis, Tennessee—the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr.  Martin Luther King, Jr. was shot while standing on his balcony of the Lorraine Motel by James Earl Ray.  Martin Luther King, Jr. was America's greatest civil rights leader and most famous advocate of non-violence.  He was in Memphis to support a march for black sanitation workers on strike for better pay and wages.

Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream and sought to be an ambassador of peace in all he did and said.  On Aug. 28, 1963, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.   This historic speech helped galvanize the Civil Rights Movement and brought the plight of the disenfranchised to a larger national and international audience.  As we remember and celebrate this wonderful man today let us reflect on some of his most popular quotes:

"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed - we hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."

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“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."

“Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

May the dream he had continue to become a reality in our world as we strive to live together in peace, love and harmony.  

Pat Schifini, OSU