From Selma to the Mountaintop: Exploring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s messages of hope, love, and resilience reverberate far beyond the confines of historic moments, reminding us that our collective progress is a shared responsibility.
His legacy continues to inspire, educate, and guide generations of advocates dedicated to the pursuit of justice and equity through coordinated resistance. His groundbreaking efforts coupled with those of other civil rights leaders and activists fueled the Civil Rights Movement and changed the course of history.
Dr. King fought for us. He stood on the front lines, mobilized communities, and helped lead a movement that reshaped the moral and social landscape of our nation. Once deemed "the most dangerous negro of the future in this nation" by the FBI, his unwavering commitment to the civil rights cause made him a threat to those who wished to maintain the status quo — to keep systems of oppression exactly as they were.
Ahead of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, explore this curated list of resources highlighting his life, work, and the movement he championed so fiercely.
KING ON FILM
"Selma"
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay, this film follows the pivotal Selma-to-Montgomery March of 1965. It captures the courage, strategic thinking, and sacrifices of — not only Dr. King — but the fearless leaders who worked beside him including Ralph Abernathy, John Lewis, Andrew Young, Diane Nash, James Bevel, and others.
"Boycott"
Starring Jeffrey Wright as Dr. King, this HBO film chronicles the Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955-1956), highlighting the courage and challenges faced by Dr. King and his constituents as they combatted segregation and racism in the South.
This HBO documentary offers an intimate portrayal of Dr. King's final years, exploring his struggles and growth as he expanded his vision for social justice.
This gripping 14-hour documentary series from PBS is essential viewing, featuring episodes that chronicle key moments in the Civil Rights Movement, with Martin Luther King Jr. at the heart of much of the programming.
"MLK/FBI"
This impactful documentary explores the surveillance and harassment Dr. King experienced at the hands of the U.S. government as his profile increased.
KING IN HIS OWN WORDS
Dr. King wrote this powerful letter while imprisoned in Birmingham, Alabama in 1963 and completely shut down criticism from eight white religious leaders in the south who wrote a statement expressing their displeasure with the demonstrations taking place in the city.
Delivered during the 1963 March on Washington, this remains one of the most iconic speeches in American history. Its resounding message of equality and hope continues to inspire.
"Beyond Vietnam — A Time to Break Silence"
Dr. King courageously spoke out against the Vietnam War in 1967 while addressing systemic issues of poverty, militarism, and racism in America.
In 1965, following the Selma-to-Montgomery march, Dr. King delivered this speech, which celebrates perseverance, sacrifice, and the power of collective action.
"I've Been to the Mountaintop"
This was Dr. King's final public speech the night before his assassination in 1968. It's a poignant, spiritual, and powerful reflection on his work and moments in the Civil Rights Movement.
Dr. King taught us the importance of serving others, to look out for those in need during times of crisis and struggle, and one thing is clear: his vision is still as relevant today as it has ever been.
Explore our resource page to learn more about Dr. King's legacy.