Coretta Scott King & the Power of Women United!

Recently, I visited Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, Georgia and learned some fascinating history about the life and leadership of Coretta Scott King. Her story reminded me that freedom, justice, and opportunity are not ideals confined to the Civil Rights era. Instead, these virtues are attainable goals for this generation. Her words remain a source of inspiration and possibility.

"Freedom is never really won. You earn it and win it in every generation."? -Coretta Scott King

As a heroine and change-maker, here are 3 insights about Coretta Scott King that I gained from my museum trip:

• She was not a passive bystander in the Civil Rights Movement. She was an up-stander for justice and committed her life to the movement for social progress alongside her well-known husband. She said,?“What most did not understand then was that I was not only married to the man I loved, but I was also married to the movement that I loved.” Her public and private sacrifice paved the way for many of the liberties that we enjoy today. And still, there is more work to do.
• She took a stance against homophobia when she said,? “I appeal to everyone who believes in Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream to make room at the table of brother and sisterhood for lesbian and gay people.”
• Before her death, she encouraged solidarity across racial lines and a coalition of women united when she said,

“I am convinced that the women of the world, united without any regard for national or racial dimensions, can become a most powerful force for international peace and brotherhood.” -Coretta Scott King

These words reverberate as a living, breathing wish from our foremothers to press forward.? There is something beautiful about women united and it represents the potential for change in this generation. Coretta Scott King understood the urgency of action and that there’s more work to be done. Her life is a reminder that women united and each of us working together can create positive, sustainable change.

And her words are also an invitation for action. She said, “It doesn’t matter how strong your opinions are. If you don’t use your power for positive change, you are, indeed, part of the problem.” Her words are a clarion call for you to consider what you can do to advance progress. So, in light of her legacy, how will you use your power for positive change?

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I'd love to hear your thoughts. What else have you learned about this giant of a woman? Please SUBSCRIBE?and forward to a friend if you enjoyed.

Desiree Coleman-Fry?advances equity and empower women through speaking, writing and curating conversations. Find me on all social media platforms: @desireescoleman and subscribe to my newsletter.

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