Martin Luther King’s Dream Making it Real Today

I Have A Dream…

Photo Courtesy mlkonline.net

Martin Luther King day is one of our only national holidays committed to honoring social and racial justice. Yet too often it has not been celebrated to the level it deserves, it becomes a weak commemoration of one of the most inspiring individuals and formative eras in American history.  It’s time for a true celebration of Martin Luther King Day.

Photo Seattle Times

At 33, he was pressing the case of civil rights with President John Kennedy.

At 34, he galvanized the nation with his “I Have a Dream” speech.

At 35, he won the Nobel Peace Prize.

At 39, he was assassinated, but he left a legacy of hope and inspiration that continues today.

Americans everywhere will remember the selfless and historic contributions made by one of the most important figures of the 21st century.

Rebuild the Dream members are hosting MLK Day Movement Meet-ups to celebrate Dr. King and link the Civil Rights Movement with today’s struggle for an economy that works for all.  People have come together to reflect on the struggles of our past, and unite to secure our future.

RTD.com

This is a chance to touch base with people who are passionate about fighting for Dr. King’s dream. Neighbors and friends will gather in schools, libraries, community centers, and living rooms to watch a short video and open up a discussion on how we can strengthen our movement in 2012.

If you would like to attend an MLK Day Meet Up, you can find one here.  If you want to host something of your own at your home with friends, click here.  Keep me posted if you do!

People across the country will gather, reflect, and commit to rebuilding the American Dream and Dr. King’s dream in 2012 from January 13–22.  All will honor Dr. King by ensuring the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement stays alive and vibrant in today’s movement. Together, we will start the New Year right.

If you are up for a day of celebrating his efforts, you can find an event in just about every county.  For all my locals:  This Saturday, January 14 head on over to Long Beach to join in the 2012 celebration of Dr. King’s own actions, “Peace! Passion! Purpose!”. This theme was taken from Dr. King’s teachings that “everyone can be great… because anybody can serve.”

The parade will begin on Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue intersecting Anaheim Street, and is followed by a multi-cultural celebration at King Park located at 1950 Lemon Avenue. The celebration will be filled with music and dance performances; a children and teen area filled with free carnival rides and give-a-ways. There will be lots of food, general merchandise vending booths, and community services information, as well as a Health Pavilion that will provide a number of free health test and flu shots. Saturday, 10:30, parade; fair, 12:30-5 p.m. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, Long Beach. www.longbeach.gov

What would Dr. King and other civil rights leaders do today? How can we continue their legacy in 2012 and beyond?