MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel presented a virtual commemoration in honor of Dr. King’s life and legacy on April 4, the 52nd anniversary of his death. Since the pandemic surge, the museum has retooled its original event to produce digital content and a virtual broadcast entitled, ‘Remembering MLK: The Man. The Movement. The Moment.’ The program originally aired April 4 and can still be viewed on the museum’s website, YouTube, Facebook, and Live stream platforms.
Each year the museum commemorates the tragic event that occurred on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in 1968. This year, the virtual commemoration includes some of the best segments of MLK50 and past ceremonies with remarks from civil rights icons Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.; Rev. James Lawson; and Dr. Omid Safi, Islamic Studies, Duke University. Performances include selections from the MLK50 Legacy Choir and spoken word by Ed Mabrey.
“We should always stop and reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. King on April 4, but this year it is needed more than ever as we try to navigate through this public health crisis,” said Museum President Terri Lee Freeman. “Dr. King’s message of economic equity is so relevant. We are seeing the devastation this crisis is taking not just on the health of our communities but also on the economic wellbeing of our neighbors. We are seeing just how fragile the financial safety net is for far too many people. Celebrating King’s acceptance of humanity, but disdain of inequity and injustice, is very important in 2020.”
