Rev. Bernice King, the youngest daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., delivered a passionate message during a Martin Luther King Jr. Day service, warning against the divisive dangers of anti-woke rhetoric.
The event, steeped in history and significance, took place at the church where her father once preached and was laid to rest.
“We are living in a time when anti-woke rhetoric has become a weapon to divide us and distract us from the real issues of injustice,” King declared to a congregation that included activists, students, and dignitaries. “To be woke is to be aware of oppression and committed to justice.”
The service was among the nation’s most prominent tributes to Dr. King, featuring stirring visuals of attendees holding signs emblazoned with “JUSTICE,” “FREEDOM,” and “DEMOCRACY.” Reflecting on the significance of the day, Rev. King called for a deeper understanding of her father’s legacy. “To honor my father is not to quote him in comfort but to live out his radical commitment to justice and equality.”
Notably, this year's Martin Luther King Jr. Day coincided with the inauguration of President Donald Trump for his second term. The overlap of celebrating a civil rights icon and the swearing-in of a president whose policies have been criticized for undermining diversity and inclusion added a complex layer to the day's events.
