Last time you read about Doris Lessing and her commitment against racism.
Today you are listening to the story of one of the most charismatic people in the Usa: Martin Luther King. Can you quote your favourite wish for the future? I’ll tell you mine:
“I have a dream, that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”
Before watching the video, look at these questions and look for info on the Internet if you miss something.
- Why did Martin decide to plan a march on Washington?
- How many people came to the march on Washington?
- Who came to the march on Washington?
- Why was 1963 and year of triumphs?
- Why was 1963 also a year of tragedies?
His non-violent fight against slavery marked a turning point in the civil rights movement, and a new awareness in American citizens.
His leadership was greatly inspired by Mahatma Ghandi, who was the leader of indian independence movement against British colonial rule.
His iconic speech talks about the injustices and discriminations that African American faced. However, in the second part, King creates a scenario of peace and racial harmony, a vision of the future where people are not judged by the colour of their skin, but by the content of their character. Segregation and discrimination on the basis of race were banned with the Civil Rights Act in 1964.
Using the rhetorical device of repetition, he succeeded in creating a memorable speech, and a slogan – I have a dream – one of the most influential and used in hundred of political actions.
Segregation and discrimination on the basis of race were banned with the Civil Rights Act in 1964.
Discussion Questions
Human Rights
1. What are human rights?
2. Do you think everyone is born equal? Why/Why not?
3. Should men and women have the same rights?
4. Do you feel you have all the human rights you need?
5. How are people being treated unfairly today?
6. Which countries do you think have the worst human rights records and why do you think so?
7. How can the world make sure human rights are protected?
8. How do you think a country with such diverse peoples and cultures can live together and respect each other’s individual rights?
9. Do religions respect human rights?
Visit the The king center and answer the questions:
Who was Martin Luther King?
What are his most remarkable achievements?
What are the triple evils and the six principles of nonviolence?
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a U.S. holiday that celebrates the birth date of one of America’s greatest civil rights leaders. Dr. King’s date of birth is January 15th, but the actual holiday is on the third Monday in January. The holiday recognizes the great achievements Martin Luther King made to American society. His leadership in the campaign to achieve equal rights for black Americans changed America forever. His focus on non-violent protests led to new laws that worked to end racial discrimination in America. The USA became a more equal society. The holiday is only one of four national holidays in America to commemorate a person. This shows just how important Martin Luther King was – one of the greatest Americans ever (from ESL Holiday Lessons.com).
The life and words of Dr. Martin Luther King
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