Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

This past year has been challenging and frightening for Americans, as paradigms have shifted and norms have shattered. It has been a time when Americans looked to leaders for answers and action. When seeking role models of great leadership in the face of adversity, we find few individuals as outstanding as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. , who was born on this day, January 15, 1929. I find it particularly appropriate that our country honors the birthday and memory of this great American patriot and civil rights leader in the midst of America’s current health crisis and political upheaval.

A vital lesson from the current pandemic is how important any single individual can be. It only takes one person to infect dozens… or to nurture and inspire many. Dr. King taught by example that each individual’s impact can be profound. He was the paradigm of nonviolent political activism. His message, and his iconic example, made it clear for all people everywhere that there is still a great deal of work that we must do before we can achieve genuine equality; that true political change relies upon non-violent persistence; and that the cultivation of respect and human dignity for all is the highest aspiration towards which we can strive.

At Touro, respect and compassion are the key values with which we imbue all of our programs. Working constantly for human rights and dignity is part of our proud tradition, for as Dr. King aptly pointed out, “Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.”

As I contemplate the extraordinary difference that Dr. King made in his short lifetime, I ask that you join me in remembering and celebrating this great American and his messages of nonviolence and dignity for all.

Dr. Alan Kadish