Remembering the 1963 March on Washington

The 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom has become one of the most iconic events from the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and ’60s. Yesterday, August 28, was the 60th anniversary of the march, which galvanized hundreds of thousands of people. In marking this anniversary, it is essential to understand the movement’s challenges and triumphs and connect the past to the present to shape a better future.

The resources in this new article can aid educators, parents and caregivers, and all community members in teaching and discussing the honest history of the 1963 March on Washington.

Reflections on a Dream Deferred

Fifteen years ago, Rep. John Lewis wrote this powerful essay for LFJ (then known as Teaching Tolerance) reflecting on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ideals. Lewis’ words are still essential reading today: “Democracy is an act. It is an act that requires participation, organization and dedication to the highest principles.”

Teaching About King’s Radical Approach to Social Justice

While Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s work is often sugarcoated, this article stresses the importance of teaching that King championed economic justice and taught Black self-love while also pushing back against neutrality, imperialism and systemic racism.