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In Tennessee and nationwide, communities are celebrating Black History Month, recognizing the contributions and achievements of African Americans to American history.
Historian Carter G. Woodson launched what was initially Negro History Week in 1926 to honor the works of Black educators, inventors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and artists.
Martin Luther King III, third chairman of the Drum Major Institute, human rights activist, and the only surviving son of the late Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., is among those carrying forward the legacy and said he remains committed to advancing his father’s vision of equality, justice, and creating legacy daily.
“It’s about building something every day,” King emphasized. “Hopefully, something that can make a difference in our community, in our society, in our cities, and also in our world. It doesn’t have to be massive that way; it can just be something small. But it’s what you do to sort of make a contribution in life.”
The U.S. Civil Rights Trail includes 14 locations in Tennessee, according to the state’s tourism office. Beyond Black History Month, King stressed the need to restore civility in today’s political climate, focusing on the importance of rebuilding dignity, respect, and inclusivity, ensuring all people are treated as human beings.
The national response to President Donald Trump’s executive order dismantling diversity programs has been mixed, and King acknowledged the country’s deep divisions. He believes his father would encourage more dialogue to foster understanding and achieve unity. He noted the country calls itself the “United” States of America but lately is seeing too much hostility and even hatred.
“Rights are being lost,” King outlined. “Some are banning books. We still don’t have the full right to vote without some encumbrances. We still don’t, all of us, have health care. We certainly still don’t have a system of justice that works for everyone.”
King highlighted his “Realize the Dream” initiative, encouraging Tennesseans and people nationwide to complete 100 volunteer service hours in honor of his father’s 100th birthday in 2029.
He added the initiative is inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1967 book, “Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?”