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IN PARALLEL January 18 2009
As a child in Social Studies class, I was taught Martin Luther King, Jr's (MLK) "I Have a Dream" speech, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, and the proposition of civil disobedience through nonviolent means. As a young adult in a Black politics course, I learned about MLK as the most established American orator of the twentieth century. On a day that precedes the inauguration of the 44th president and also celebrates life, I am reminded of two things.MLK said, "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." When he takes office, Barack Obama will be confronted with an economic crisis and two wars. Despite the enormity of the tasks at hand, he remains hopeful and vows perseverance, as MLK did when he was faced with racial injustice. He also said, "Almost always, the creative dedicated minority has made the world." What was most notable about the 2008 election was the announcement of Obama's candidacy - an African-American senator from Illinois. He rallied the young and old to support his campaign of change, creating an enthusiastic atmosphere across the country. MLK stirred up the same gusto when he made his speeches on equality and peace. His dedication earned him the passage of the civil rights act, the voting act, and a national holiday.
A boy was quoted at Lincoln Memorial saying, "Martin Luther King walked so Barack Obama could run." Though some fifty years apart, two worlds have aligned. Today, Americans commemorate the life and dream of an extraordinary leader. Yesterday, we heard that anything is possible from the president elect. And tomorrow, we inaugurate that man to the highest office of our country.
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