“The Honor of Meeting Martin Luther King, Jr.” by Caleah
Caleahof Sebring's entry into Varsity Tutor's February 2016 scholarship contest
- Rank:
- 0 Votes
“The Honor of Meeting Martin Luther King, Jr.” by Caleah - February 2016 Scholarship Essay
As students begin to learn the truth of history, many realize that different people have made an impact in the government and the society of today. Some would have the enjoyment of sitting down and having dinner with any of these extraordinary people. The historical figure I would have dinner with is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. King made a vital change during the twentieth century. In the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. fought the issue of slavery and segregation; however, he did it through the act of nonviolence. This way, African-American voices were heard and not turned as an earmark. In the Supreme Court Case Brown vs. Board of Education in 1954, the affirmative action took place. Desegregation came into play among territories and school. This was also known as part of the Equal-Protection Clause in the 14th Amendment, which dealt with selective incorporation. In addition to his greatness, on August 28, 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s delivered his famous “I Have a Dream Speech”. Through diction and repetition on “I have a dream…” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stressed freedom among the white and black people. Everyone was created under God’s image and love. No one should have to face racial issues because of the color of their skin, religion, ethnicity, or language. Everyone has equal rights and freedom of speech, as stated in the first amendment of the Constitution.
Approximately two years after his influential speech, The Civil Rights Act was established in 1964. This act ended The Jim Crow Laws of segregation, equal employment commission, enforced the 14th amendment, and interfered with interstate commerce due to segregation. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 outlawed literacy and poll tests of disenfranchisement on the African-Americans. Federal oversight on voting registration was also improved. For centuries, African-Americans have fought for their freedom—whether it be life or death. There are so many questions that I would have for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As a young African-American woman, I respect his actions and perseverance through the most difficult trials of his life. I would let Dr. King know that I am very proud of him. There were sacrifices that were made for the United States, and I wish that he could see how the world has changed today because of him. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s actions did not go to waste—he would be very proud to see what his legacy has done for many citizens.