March on Washington: Continue to Dream

Not a commemoration, a continuation: March on Washington

On August 28, 1963, during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered what has become one of the most famous speeches ever given. The event brought together thousands of people from across the country to press the United States government for equality. Dr. King issued a challenge to our government leaders and to us as he delivered what is now known as the “I Have a Dream” speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.

One passage of that speech always convicts me.

“We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. 

Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.”

Now. Now, if you have never been a part of any effort to help overcome racial injustices, it is not too late. The word “now” convicts me over and over again. I urge you to examine your heart and identify ways you can be an active part of the continuing fight for justice and equality now.

The Rev. Al Sharpton, President and Founder of National Action Network; Martin Luther King III, Board Chairman of the Drum Major Institute; and Arndrea Waters King, President of the Drum Major Institute; have partnered with 60 national organizations for a multiracial, intergenerational march not simply to commemorate Dr. King’s vision but to continue the fight for equality and justice. If you are interested in attending the march on Saturday, August 26, 2023, details are available on the National Action Network website.

Do not be discouraged if you can’t join the march. You do not have to travel beyond your own community to join the fight. Ending Racism USA will strive to help keep you informed on urgent issues. We will work to build bridges with other organizations that are concerned about protecting our collective freedom and fight for Dr. King’s dream. We will provide opportunities to add our voices to those who seek to keep the promises of democracy alive. We invite you to share your stories with us as we continue our efforts in pursuit of liberty and justice for all. We refuse to let the dream die!