The Dream on My Shoulders
The following was originally planned as a speech for the MLK Unity Day but was cut for time
Martin Luther King’s momentous speech shared a dream of unity among all races, all religions, all genders, all ages. His speech conveyed togetherness rather than individuals being separated by their unwillingness to coexist among each other. He had high hopes for the future: to let freedom ring across the nation, especially for African-Americans who have had to endure traumatic experiences through brutality, racism, discrimination, and their equal rights being stripped off their backs. His dream carried over decades, that…one day…change would spread over this country.
As each day goes by, I can consider myself a living testimony of that dream being made possible. Dr. King wished for young black girls and young black boys to experience freedom and their rights be exercised, similar to those of the opposite race. Being present in this current time with my freedom available to me, presented opportunities, and education grasped at the tip of my fingers, I dare not wish to waste the sacrifices that have been made for me from my ancestors. Dr. King’s dream has taught a valuable lesson of staying true to one's character, utilizing your knowledge and power to provoke positive change and having resilience in the midst of hard times. I plan to keep the dream alive by demonstrating grit and not settling for less than what is deserved.
The lack of acceptance African-Americans have endured and continue to experience won’t be overlooked. Though there have been breakthroughs made, it doesn’t end when many injustices still arise in this nation.
Today, those of colored descent are still experiencing unjust acts on a daily basis. I vouch to not live in fear or live behind the shadows. My light will shine in the midst of this darkness to not provoke more hate but spread love and awareness until change occurs. Dr. King’s dream was and continues to be a marathon, to keep pushing to get to the end goal; it can’t be put to rest till change is fully executed. The desire in myself as an individual is to be part of that by using my voice and being an advocate for myself and others. I will not overlook my chances to be a light in another individual’s life.
Most importantly, I will not be a bystander to wrong-doings in this world, but like Dr. King’s example, I will speak out onto those who fail to add positive change. Being fully clothed with love and confidence in my own skin and knowing my place in this world will aid in my success.
Not taking advantage of the many things in my life, such as my education, which has been one of my top priorities in my life, one aspect Dr. King felt strongly about and hoped for those of color to experience. Knowing the struggle, I will not waste it and fall to be satisfied with mediocrity, instead rise to the top and always desire for more. Keeping the dream alive should and will be displayed through my actions and character. Having integrity and following my morals will carry Dr. King’s dream just as he followed his intuition and stayed true to his character in the midst of violence.
I am unapologetically me who will not fail at the fingertips of others, but I have control over what my destiny will be. To not look to what’s around me and fall into the shadows, but to be a leader by not only my words, but the life I choose to live.
Alexis McCowin attends New Tech Academy at Wayne High School