HARARE In preparation for Martin Luther King Day, the United States Ambassador, Charles A. Ray, addressed over 150 high school students at Prince Edward School last Friday. The address, organised by the US Embassy Public Affairs Section, was held to commemorate the life of Dr. King Jr. Drawing from his personal experience during the days of the civil rights movement, Ambassador Ray narrated to the students how Dr. King Jr.s actions changed the fabric of society in the U.S. When Dr. King appeared on the scene, it was for many of us who lived in the South, like a sign from heaven that things were changing. We could follow his example, hold our heads up with pride, and show that no one had cause to look down on us, said Ray.
He challenged the students to draw from the experience of Dr. King Jr. when conducting campaigns for positive social change noting that he was truly gifted in his ability to communicate important ideas. I never knew him personally, but Ive come to know some of the people who were close to him, and they all say that he was true to his beliefs. From him though, I learned some important lessons. Dont hate your oppressor; pity him, and return love for his hate. Learn that the most powerful weapon you possess is your ability to forgive, and to love, said the Ambassador.
King Jr. was the one of the most eloquent voices in the U.S. civil rights movement during the 1950s and 60s. As a political organiser, supremely skilled orator and advocate of non-violent protest, King was pivotal in persuading his fellow Americans to end the legal segregation that prevailed throughout the South and other regions, and in sparking support for the civil rights legislation that established the legal framework for racial equality in the United States.
Post published in: News