June 17th 2024.
Alabama is showing its deep appreciation for the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by honoring him in its capital city of Montgomery. The city, known as the birthplace of the historic Bus Boycott, has unveiled a life-size statue of the renowned activist. The statue, located at Legacy Plaza, was revealed by the Equal Justice Initiative in June, with community members in attendance. It stands near the recently erected statue of Rosa Parks, another prominent figure in the fight for racial equality.
The sculptor behind this new masterpiece is Basil Watson, a native of King's hometown of Atlanta. In an interview with WSFA, Watson shared that he wanted viewers to feel a sense of hope when they see his work, much like the hope that King's speeches have instilled in so many. He further explained that we must focus on building up rather than tearing down, and have a positive outlook on where we are going and where we come from.
King played a significant role in the city of Montgomery, leading the charge for racial equality in the nation. He even wrote a memoir in 1958 titled "Stride Toward Freedom" about his experience during the bus boycott. As the president of the Montgomery Improvement Association, King was instrumental in the movement and shed light on their cause. According to those in Montgomery, it was long overdue for King to have a place next to Parks, who is often referred to as the mother of the boycott.
During the unveiling ceremony, King's daughter Bernice spoke about the statue's symbolic significance and the encouragement it brings. She expressed her hope that others will continue to fight for the values of peace, justice, and equality that her father dedicated his life to. She also emphasized the importance of these values in moving towards a more just and humane world for all people.
The Equal Justice Initiative also plans to honor other civil rights activists across the nation by erecting statues of their own. One upcoming statue will be of the late U.S. Rep. John Lewis, who was a key figure in the civil rights movement. His statue will also be located at Legacy Plaza, adding to the growing collection of monuments honoring those who fought for justice and equality.
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