THE CURRENT CHALLENGES OF GUN VIOLENCE BECOMES PART OF THE COMMEMORATION ON THE 45TH ANNIVERSARY OF MLK'S ASSASSINATION

Photo credit: praisecharlotte.com

The adage "a picture is worth a thousand words" certainly applies to the above image. In its complexity; his daughter, Rev. Bernice King was 5 years old when her father was assassinated. One can only speculate that she is experiencing some sense of comfort as she leans on this stone edifice of his likeness.  I can't help but wonder if his compassion for the marginalized and fairness he advocated for all groups would have softened the hard line and restricted viewpoint she espouses--had he lived. There is concern on my part regarding her previous actions.  I  remember how she treated many of those who fought along with her father and supported their family after his death to accommodate the George Bush regime at her mother's funeral.  Her closed door policy towards the LGBT community also comes to mind.  However, the captured poignancy of this moment reveals the very personal loss his surviving offspring have endured over the past 45 years.

The King Center has an array of activities to mark this anniversary as well as other civic and religious organizations around the country. As we celebrated his birthday in January; we will, again, reflect on the amazing events that transpired as a result of his untimely death and embark on greater challenges.  On April 4th, 2013, the King Center will sponsor "The 50 Days of Nonviolence" campaign.  The focus will be on the exacerbation of gun violence and the loss of innocent lives and how to effectively resist intransigent gun lobbyists/legislation and to change and ultimately resolve this menacing trend.  The struggle continues!