Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is my hero. In the face of adversity he stood tall and led protests to challenge Jim Crow laws, equality issues, and voting rights. I am honored to have witnessed history in the making fifty years ago. About 200,000 people gathered to march on Washington D.C. in 1963 to voice discontent with a way of life, imposed on the black race, that was demoralizing, oppressive, and racist. People from all walks of life and color laid their lives on the line and marched on Washington D.C.
I was nine years old when this historical march took place. In my home the adults were “fired-up.” The atmosphere was filled with excitement, hope, and anticipation, that this march would make a difference.
I witnessed the events of that day watching it unfold on TV. There was much talk about what could happen to the marchers converging upon Washington D.C. I was fearful. I heard about people being killed for protesting. I’d seen on TV how brutal some were treated during various protests. Water hoses were used to stop the protesters. Dogs were un-leached and ordered to attack those participating in a peaceful march for equality. I thought riots would occur in my neighborhood. I thought the government might come and kill us. I thought the Black Panthers would start a race war. These were the anxieties I experienced during such tumultuous times.
Although I am unable to be in Washington D.C. to participate in the march, I stand in solidarity with all of my brothers and sisters who are there honoring this day.
I am proud to be an American, a Black Woman, living in the greatest country on earth.
In the words of the late, great, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “Let Freedom Ring.”
Love, light, and blessings