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Remember! Celebrate! Act A Day On, Not A Day Off!

  • Published
  • By By: Master Sgt. Carlos Barter
  • 90th Missile Wing Equal Opportunity Office

“I say to you today, my friends, though, even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.’”

 

These were the powerful and convincing words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during his, “I Have a Dream Speech.”  For many years Americans have celebrated King’s Birthday in remembrance of an American who overcame several obstacles in order to change America and the unjust, unfair treatment of blacks and other minorities.

 

King was born in Atlanta, Georgia, January 15, 1929. In 1964, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. Although King was assassinated in April 1968 at the age of 39, but his legacy is with us today.

 

King’s legacy is that he dared to dream of a brighter tomorrow. His legacy has also stood the test of time. He has inspired many civil rights activists and will continue to do so as long as there is inequality in the world. He challenged us to look past the color of one’s skin and look at the person’s character.

 

Though we have come a long way, we must continue working hard to realize King’s dream. It’s important that we all take a chance trying to embrace and appreciate those that are different from us.

 

It’s those differences that have made our country a great nation. King fought hard to make sure America will keep its promise of equal rights for all. Let’s carry on his legacy to make sure our nation continues to be one of respect and equality for all.

 

The 90th Missile Wing will host a combined observance event in June 2016 to give tribute to, not only the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, but also to recognize all American ethnic groups who have helped build, maintain and shape our great nation.

 

 For more information about the combined observance event, or to volunteer, email Master Sgt. Barter at carlos.barter@us.af.mil or Jim Hunt at James.hunt.16@us.af.mil.