(originally published January 31st, 2006)

Earlier this month I wrote something about Martin Luther King, Jr, and today I write something about his wife. I was only 8 years old when Dr. King was assassinated, so most of the history I have with him is through books and movies. However, Coretta Scott King has been a big part of my life, and many other people’s lives, for a very long time. I’ve always thought that she was the epitome of class and honor, and I can’t think of too many people who could have ultimately filled the role she had thrust upon her, without her request.

It’s amazing the things you learn after the fact. I never knew she was a trained classical musician, both in voice and on the violin. Never knew she was valedictorian of her high school class. I never knew the extent to which she fought to preserve her husband’s legacy, and now hard she worked in trying to get a national tribute to all he stood for.

Once again, I thank someone for their efforts in the civil rights movement, which allows me to live as I choose to now. We must make sure to never forget the efforts of all of these people.