History

Martin Luther King, Jr. carved into the Stone of Hope

NPS Photo

 

Quick Facts

Location:

 

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Designation: National Park

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Martin Luther King, Jr. led the Civil Rights Movement for 12 years. Not being a complete figure in the sculpture is a reminder that his work was unfinished. It is now up to others to carry on his mission to achieve fairer equality for all persons. 

This national memorial doesn’t pay tribute to a war or president. It honors an African American man who sought to make the world a better place for humanity. This memorial represents the diversity that comprises this nation. At the same time, it reminds us that we can, and should, do better in terms of accepting that diversity and helping it thrive.  

It makes for a stronger community. (You can’t spell community without unity.) 

Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Stone of Hope are flanked to the rear by the South and North Walls of Quotations, containing his messages promoting peace, democracy, justice, and love. Note that the walls connect to the waterfalls, which connect to the Mountain of Despair, with the visible reminder of the opening and its significance.