The nation approaches an anniversary of a vision, manifested by world-renowned activist, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., on Aug. 28, 1963, King verbalized the need for America to “live out the true meaning of its creed.”
The 1963 March to the Lincoln Memorial symbolized an awakening to the “dream,” but presently, it still looks like an endless terror of injustice for many Black Americans in Los Angeles. Do any of our local public servants reflect the work of King’s awareness?
The narrative of lack of resources, police brutality, and distinct favoritism seen in the white community has been recorded over time—illuminated in the “I Have a Dream” speech. 250,000 men, women, and children heard the truth about their lives echo through the halls of the nation’s capital.
King spoke of the racial injustices in America; holding the country accountable to redefine equality for all. This was addressed in June of 2020, Los Angeles gave birth to an entire organization, and the Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department was created.
Related Links:
Spearheaded by Executive Director, Capri Maddox, the mission located on the website states, they look to “maintain and strengthen the city’s diversity, equity, and accountability.”
With a similar impact to the 1963 March, the murder of George Floyd—due to police brutality— created a social resurgence. While being a force in the U.S. Congress, Los Angeles City Mayor Karen Bass worked on a national directive; the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. In June of 2020, Bass curated a “bold, comprehensive approach to hold police accountable, and change the culture of law enforcement and our communities.”
King recounted a history of racial injustice in America and charged the country to live up to the core promises of freedom and equality for all that inhabit the land. He spoke a truth that rings true today; Black people have little to no upward economic mobility and drift like castaways from essential resources. The 1963 March drew attention to the reality Black Americans face and Los Angeles is answering that call from the far beyond.
“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. ‘”— Martin Luther King Jr.
