We still disregard the protests of Black America. We still desire “peace” or to “avoid politics” rather than seek justice. We still are that great stumbling block. But we also have come further than the day this man gave up His ghost. Such a beautiful, complex awareness. Rejoice in the progress that has been made and use it as a hope to keep pushing forward towards the impossibilities of heaven.
As I stood there, I listened to freedom songs, many of which I sang as I marched behind people of color as they led me from Charlottesville to D.C. to confront the systemic racism of White Supremacy. I listened to King’s “I have seen the mountaintop” speech from the day before his assassination.
It’s a devastating place to stand. But it’s a powerful place to stand too. To listen to this mans words here, in this space, fills you with a hopeful and determined spirit. It is a deeply honest landmark. May we never stop seeking that promised land. May we never stop liberating others from injustice.
And may the spirit of Dr. King, so deeply rooted in his faith of his savior Jesus Christ, urge, confront, and call us to be hopeful enough to persevere.
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