The Power of Tradition, Unity and Legacy: Lessons from Dr. King and Family

As #BlackHistoryMonth unfolds, I find myself reflecting on the rich traditions that have shaped my life—especially those I have shared with my two sons. From our cherished Christmas bowling and movie nights to the annual Father’s Day ascent of #StoneMountain, these moments serve as the foundation of lasting memories. Yet, the tradition that holds the deepest significance is our yearly tribute to the enduring legacy of #DrMartinLutherKingJr.

Since my sons were young, we’ve visited the King Center to reflect on Dr. King’s teachings of equality, justice and unity. These visits help us understand and appreciate the impact of Dr. King’s work on our lives today. They provide a bridge to both our family’s past and the values we hold dear, no matter the distance. In addition to these family visits – indeed because of them – I also recently joined my #Atlanta team at Skanska to tour Auburn Avenue, where we walked in the footsteps of history and experienced Dr. King’s lasting influence as a group.

Dr. King’s Legacy and Personal Values

Dr. King’s legacy has profoundly shaped my worldview. #AuburnAvenue, where he grew up, stands as a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and collective effort—values that resonate with me as a father, a professional, and a Skanska team member. His teachings, alongside the examples set by leaders like #JohnWesleyDobbs and #WilliamBHartsfield, reinforce the importance of communication, collaboration, and understanding—even with those we may not always agree with.

Unity Through Family Traditions

Family traditions not only strengthen our bonds but also serve as powerful reminders of the values we cherish. I see Dr. King’s influence reflected in my son Jordan, who is currently serving in the U.S. Air Force. He volunteers for causes that promote inclusion and support for women in the military, crediting his passion for service and unity to Dr. King’s teachings.

One memory from our visits to the King Center stands out. After a long day of walking and exploring exhibits, my youngest son, Dylan—just 3 years old at the time— was exhausted and complained, “My feet hurt.” Without hesitation, Jordan, 8 years older, replied, “You shouldn’t complain about your feet hurting. Dr. King marched for hours and didn’t complain.” Dylan’s frustrated response still makes us laugh today, and that small moment became a profound reminder of sacrifice, perseverance, and understanding of the struggles of those who paved the way for us.

Skanska’s "Be Better Together" and the Power of Teamwork

At Skanska, we embrace the value of “Be Better Together.” Just as our family traditions highlight the power of unity and shared experiences, so does our approach to teamwork. We know that when we work together, we can accomplish far more than we ever could alone. As an African proverb wisely states: "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."

?Honoring Black History Month is not just about reflection—it’s about action. At Skanska, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to bring their authentic selves to the table. Just as Dr. King’s legacy continues to inspire us, we strive to build a more just, equitable, and unified future—both in our personal lives and in our work.

?#Skanska #BlackHistoryMonth #BetterTogether #FamilyTraditions