Martin Luther King Jr. was a revolutionary servant-leader, powerful speaker, and advocate for communities of color, the poor, and the marginalized. He shaped our nation in an immensely powerful way, so powerful that his work continues to shape our country today. On Martin Luther King Day we want to recognize the importance of his passion for his people, racial and economic justice, and nonviolent reformation continues to impact and guide the United States. As we continue to wrestle with the same issues King himself did, it is crucial that we continue learning to transform our practices and attitudes through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the workplace and our communities.

Who was Martin Luther King Jr.? 

Martin Luther King Jr. was a husband, father, brother, and activist whose outspoken activism for racial equality led him to become a prisoner. And later, a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.  

His first experience with racism was when he was 6 years old. He was admitted to Morehouse College at 15 years of age. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, he continued his studies at Boston University where he eventually received his doctorate.  

He became a minister of a Baptist church in Atlanta, Georgia. There he preached gospels about transforming our practices and attitudes towards each other. 

Martin Luther King’s teachings expanded around the world. In India he met with the Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru to discuss Mahatma Gandi’s concepts and practices of peaceful noncompliance.  

How his teachings live on

Martin Luther King’s practices led to peaceful approaches to opposing the largest societal issues of his time. He participated in nonviolent protests such as strikes, boycotts and marches. As we continue to oppose these same issues of inequality today, we continue to use these tactics when we bear witness to injustices in our society. 

How he continues to inspire

Assassinated at the early age of 39, MLK’s work was left unfinished.  His life and legacy push us forward, closer to seeing his Dream become a reality.  In pursuit of this reality, we aim to hold ourselves to the highest standard, reject the status quo, and continue to fight against injustice.   

Conclusion 

PrincetonOne’s Vice President of RPO, Kaitlin Hermiller stated “MLKJ Day isn’t just a day off from work – it’s an incredibly important day of reflection to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King. As a leader of the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. King fought for a just, equitable, and anti-racist society. A lot of work has been done since his untimely death in 1968, but there is still so much work to be done. I share in Dr. King’s dream and do my best to spread that message at PrincetonOne and beyond.” 

As we launch into 2023, we continue to grow and expand our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.  For ourselves and our clients, we embrace MLK’s dream, and strive to hold ourselves to the highest standard at PrincetonOne.  

https://www.ministrymatters.com/all/entry/7937/the-pastoral-legacy-of-martin-luther-king-jr