A leader does not doubt for one moment the capacity of the people he is leading to realize whatever he’s dreaming. Imagine if Marin Luther King Jr. had said, “I have a dream… of course, I’m not sure that they’ll be up to it.”Today is the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. This speech is arguably one of the most important speeches ever spoken for innumerable reasons. While I could explain to you the importance of this speech, I would rather you take 17 minutes and watch it yourself.
You can also find the full text of the speech here.
Please take time to watch this video when you can clear your mind and focus on the words being said. Consider all the things going on at that time. Consider past events, speeches, and documents that set the foundation for that speech. Consider the future that you are currently living 50 years later, and the implications that the speech has had on the lives of you and others you know. Consider what made that speech so important.
Please write a reflection on your own blog by Wednesday, September 11th at 11:59 pm. All I ask is for you to say what that speech means to you. Here are some questions you can consider if you don’t know where to start: What does this speech have to do with leadership? What does this speech have to do with possibility? What does this speech have to do with the Emerging Leaders program and Finis Origine Pendet? Why was this speech so effective?
You may utilize any media (quotes, pictures, videos, songs, etc.) in your blog post as you deem relevant. Be creative. Be original. Be authentic.
Happy blogging!
-Alex
