MLK’s speech: "assumes the sale" for racial justice

On August 28, 1963. That was the day of Martin Luther King’s “I Have A Dream” speech. King began by stating the is “the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.” His remark holds true today. Possibly it remains true for the rest of American history. The reason—King’s visionary speech.

I was 14 years old at the time. Do not recall understanding King’s speech but the Civil Rights movement was in full swing. In those days many found MLK Jr to be too moderate, too willing to work for the white man. Malcolm X, may felt, was the true revolutionary.

Just listened to the 17 minutes speech. Taken by the great logic of his remarks:

Problem stated:

1) Negro lives on an island of poverty.

2) Negro is languishing in the corners of American society.

3) America issues a promissory note to every citizen—guaranteeing life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness—except to the black man. 

4) There should be sufficient funds in the “great vaults of opportunity of this nation” to promise the same acess to freedom and the security of justice to citizens of all races.

Solution:call to action

1) Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice.

Warnings issued:

1) The riots were not a case of the Negro blowing off steam. The revolt will continue to shake the nation until the bright day of justice emerges.

2) Black men should not give up the thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.

Common Ground: the American dream

1)   I still have a dream. It is deeply rooted in the American dream.

The famous closing of the “I Have A Dream” speech “assumes the sale”—assumes a future of racial justice.

·      The children of slave owners and former slaves sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

·      Mississippi will no longer be sweltering under the heat of oppresson—but will become an oasis.

·      My 4 little children will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their characer.

Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last.

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