Remembering Martin Luther King Jr. on Election Day, April 4
Today, April 4, 2023, is the date of the Chicago mayoral runoff election. While it may seem on the surface to be a date like any other, it is one that is laden with historical resonance as it marks both the 55th anniversary of the assassination of civil rights luminary Martin Luther King Jr. as well as the 56th anniversary of his speech "Beyond Vietnam" – a speech calling for a stop of violence against Vietnam. The confluence of these three events represents a crucial moment of reckoning for Chicago – a city that has long struggled with issues of race and inequality – and reminds its residents to step up to the polls with fresh conviction.
Today’s two anniversaries regarding Martin Luther King Jr. represent two great forces at war today in Chicago. His assassination reminds us of the violence still wreaking havoc on our city, violence that is often racialized; however, his speech condemning the war in Vietnam harkens us to peace. That very juxtaposition, violence vs. peace, made evident by precisely one year’s difference in time, looms over today’s election.
It is vital that we recognize the enduring legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., including the sacrifices he made in the name of racial justice. His assassination, a sobering tragedy, exposed the deep-seated racism and inequality plaguing our society. However, his call to peace a year prior can give us hope and a reason to act.
In 2019, the election of Lori Lightfoot as the city's first Black female mayor was a momentous milestone in the struggle against racial inequality; however, the city still grapples with systemic racism, police violence, and economic inequality, making this election all the more consequential. Today, two new candidates face off against each other, and the decision voters make will determine the city's future direction on these critical issues.
Together, let’s heed the historical significance of this April 4 date and recognize the importance of electing leaders who will labor to create a more equitable and just city for all. The enduring legacy of Martin Luther King Jr will serve as a clarion call, reminding us that the fight for justice is far from over and that the time for transformative change is now.
Chris Groza
Communications Coordinator, CRS
Join CRS in the fight for justice? Bring forth change by
Accessing these resources and voting today.
Learning about the My Congregation Votes campaign.
Pledging to support voting rights.
Making a gift to support the voting rights work of CRS