As we prepare for our long weekend, let us remember why we honor Dr. King and the deep impact that he and the Civil Rights movement has made for the people of the United States. Yes, for all people. Because the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin — and each of these categories applies to all of us.
Over the past few years, we have witnessed both successful and unsuccessful attempts to dismantle our Civil Rights, and in the case of the January 6th attack, an attempt to overturn our Constitutional Rights. I am disheartened, angry, and alarmed that we are slowly losing the rights that we have fought so hard for. However, Beth Chandler, President and CEO of YW Boston and TSNE Board member, wrote recently “I call on you to be courageous…” reminding us that we must have courage, and continue the fight for equity, justice, and inclusivity that our elders began. This is the call to continued action that we need, and courage is the power that fuels us.
Dr. King said in his I Have Dream speech at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom “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 quick sands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” No truer words have been said, in 1963 or in 2024.
And in 2024, let us have the courage to continue the fight that Dr. King led, and use our voice, our vote, and our collective power to ensure that we maintain the rights that he and others fought, and died for.
Elaine Ng
President and CEO
TSNE