MLK in the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, August 28, 1963. The purpose of the march was to advocate for the civil and economic rights of African Americans.

93 years after his birth and 59 years after his inspiring and historic “I have a dream speech” on the granite steps of the Lincoln Memorial, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr words remain as relevant today as they were when he lived.

The challenges we face today – equal rights – acceptance of all people regardless of their race, creed, sexual orientation – compassion – and respect for the dignity of all people – were all part of Dr King’s legacy for a more peaceful and accepting world.

A recent photo taken on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C., where MLK delivered his now famous “I have a Dream” speech. His words are etched in the granite steps as seen above.

Today we honor his birthday yet it is a quintessential moment for all of us to address what we can do to ensure the key values Dr. King gave his life for are not forgotten. One of my favorite quotes from the many that are part of his amazing life is:

Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: what are you doing for others?

He clearly embraced the notion of compassionate leadership – empathy in action. I cannot think of a better way to celebrate his birthday and life by asking ourselves today – what can we do for others? If we’re going to change the direction of our world, then we must be the extension of his legacy. Waiting for another leader like Dr. Martin Luther King is not the answer. We are the solution!

In his eloquent words and in the peaceful and compassionate life he lived, he provided us with a powerful example of how to live with purpose. For that and so much more, we are grateful.

So this year as we celebrate the life of Dr King, let us rededicate our own lives to a kinder and more compassionate world.

~ Donato J. Tramuto
Chairman, TramutoPorter Foundation