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January 15, 2018

Why Martin Luther King, Jr. Matters to the Adoption World

Today we honor incendiary civil rights activist Martin Luther King, Jr., who rallied a nation in his quest to create a better country for us all. His love for humanity was unequivocal, and he was mercilessly challenged every step of the way—up until his devastating assassination on April 4, 1968 at just 39 years old.

He is a fundamental figure in American history, one of the most powerful and important leaders we’ve ever had, and in far too many ways we are still fighting the fight he led. His words and actions made him an American hero, but they speak powerfully to the adoption community as well. A community that is plagued by stereotypes and confusion across different cultures. A community in which individuals from many backgrounds come together to create beautiful families—ones which many do not understand. A community in which we strive to inspire our children to rise up against adversity, to dream bigger than they think possible, to find light in the darkness, to always do what’s right, and to have faith.

Adoption is about a dream. A dream of having a family. A dream of lifting up a child with unconditional love so they may live the very best life possible.

It is easy for this day to get ingrained in our consciousness as another government holiday that gives us a Monday off . But there is epic truth to Martin Luther King, Jr.’s power, and he has a great deal to offer those who have been touched by adoption. For those who have created transracial families that include black or African American children—he is a figure that cannot be ignored, and his legacy deserves to be front in center for your child.

Here are some of his most powerful words:

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.
If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.
Free at last, Free at last, Thank God almighty we are free at last.
Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.
Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.
The time is always right to do what is right.
I look to a day when people will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.
The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.
In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.
I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.