Honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Mark Crawford
Retired, Former SVP Global Head of Employment Law and Global Head of DE&I
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., I Have a Dream
Today many across the US will honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. ?While it’s been more than 50 years since his death, his words remain as relevant as ever.
The social unrest and injustice witnessed during 2020 highlighted ongoing issues of racism within our country and created further division. But it also sparked much-needed conversations on race, inclusion and equity around dinner tables, in the workplace and other social settings, leading to policy change and increased corporate responsibility across organizations. Today at bp we continue the hard work of ensuring our people practices and policies are equitable for all employees.
I am deeply grateful for the courageous sacrifices made by Dr. King. He was not silent about the inequality that separated us. He led with love and compassion, advocating for every person to have an opportunity to succeed.
I remember as a boy seeing Dr. King’s picture proudly displayed in the homes of friends and family members. I recall reciting his speeches, watching documentaries, and reading books about his life and contribution to civil rights. I can imagine the impact he had on students at Barratt Junior High in 1967 when he posed this question: What is your life’s blueprint?
He offered three principles to consider:
领英推荐
On this day of celebration, I encourage you reflect on your own blueprint. Be courageous in your decision making and leadership – and be willing to lend your voice to those unable or unwilling to speak around you. While we have made some strides, Dr. King’s dream has not yet come to full fruition. We all play a role in improving fairness, equality and equity.
What will your contribution be?
For more information on Dr. King’s life and virtual celebrations go to King Holiday 2022 - The King Center.?
I invite you to share other Dr. King holiday observances. ?
Human Resources/Expatriate Administration/HR Operations/Payroll Administration/Vendor Services & Relations/Repatriation Services/Client Experience & Service/ HR Communications
3 年I concur, and forever inspiring and compassionate.
Technical Writer/Editor III
3 年In my mind, Dr King was a modern-day prophet. God gave us Dr King’s vision and insight as he gave the human race other prophets to help guide human development. Just as He lost his son at a young age, we lost Dr King early on. I believe each human being is called home when they have completed their specific God-given mission. I believe the same for Dr King. He showed us the path forward. It’s always been up to us to walk that walk.
Professional Videographer and Photographer
3 年Thanks for sharing this!
Director, Employment Legal Counsel, focusing on the EMEA & APAC regions
3 年A wonderful synopsis about an exceptional man, Mark. Dr King’s principles resonate today as they did when he walked on this earth. A lesson to us all!