Wow! It’s hard to believe that Coretta Scott King has passed away. It’s truly a blessing (and, I think, fitting) that she was able to go peacefully in her sleep, but I did feel my heart sink a little when I heard the news. Here was a woman who embodied the heart and soul of the Civil Rights Movement. Not only was she able to carry on the legacy of her husband, but she was also able to to define her own legacy by serving as a reminder of what she and so many others had fought using non-violent means. She is a national treasure, and she will be missed. I also express concern for what this means for the future of the Civil Rights Movement. For those of you who thought the struggle was over, consider all those in this country alone who are oppressed everyday. Think of how persistent homophobia, racism, sexism, classism, and other “isms” are in today’s society. Until those have been eliminated, the struggle is not over. I just hope people will take the inspiration of both Kings to continue to fight the isms in our everyday life, no matter how big or how small.
