Economic justice is the idea that the economy will be more successful if it creates equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, or religion. The fundamental goal of this concept was especially important to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He advocated for the rights of others based on the content of their character rather than external features.
Monday, January 15, 2024, is Martin Luther King Day. In observance of the day, we honor the significance of King’s push for economic justice. His vision for equal and fair income and job creation was substantial for the advancement of people of all races everywhere.
Join us as we celebrate the impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and examine his legacy in detail.
The fight against insolvency
King wanted to end poverty. He organized the Poor People’s Campaign in 1968 and strived to address income shortages through underserved neighborhoods with fewer job and housing opportunities. Calling for a revolution of values in America, the campaign used his pursuit of economic justice to level the playing field. It integrated multiple communities and is part of MLK’s many accomplishments.
King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech
The original intent behind King’s “I Have a Dream” speech was an appeal to end economic and employment inequalities. He spoke on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to over 200,000 attendees on August 28, 1963. The iconic line was not in the original plan, and the first draft formerly declared “normalcy, never again.”
We will never know why or how the words of his speech changed, but by the applause it received, it was a superb improvisation. King wanted economic inclusion for all. He used every fiber of his being to promote it. Through his passionate speech, he opened the minds of all who heard, and the phrase “I have a dream” is quoted yet to this day.
Economic justice and equal rights
Today, several organizations use King’s legacy as an example in their push for economic justice. It’s great to know the movement has not ceased, and every day is a step closer to equal access to financial stability.
Achieva Credit Union proudly follows and supports all fair lending practices.
