And,they made it one because so many people personally affected by the
Civil Rights Movement in the United States felt it was appropriate
that it be made a legal holiday, along with so many white males of
importance. In other words, public pressure, which is what a Republic
is supposed to be about.
He is viewed by African Americans as a major leader in the movement,
as well as a martyr to his cause. I for one cannot argue against this
belief. Though I am white, my wife (who is Mexican) has a "foster
mother" who is A.A., and quite elderly. Before her male friends all
died of old age, I had the privilege of visiting with tham upon
various occasions.
I can tell you, it was fascinating to talk to these old gentlemen (and
let me emphasize they were gentlemen) and hear their stories from 1915
and on, how they lived and loved and worked and raised and educated
children and survived in the midst of racial hatred and discrimination
in the US society.
So, anyone who actually gave his life trying to bring peace and
opportunity to them, is viewed as an extremely important person. Not
a Messiah, that has religious significance, but as close to it as any
mortal could ever be.
He was a very powerful orator, and did truly motivate A.A. people to
take risks for the future of their children.
There have been attempts to discredit him for allegations of personal
morality issues, but those do not eliminate his true contributions to
the lives and futures of millions of African Americans.
Clearly, those who have not shared the experiences of millions of
African Americans find it hard to understand what this man means to
them. |
