Recently, the Rainbow Push Coalition hosted an inspiring Dr. King Day of Service and Learning, where the powerful message of “Keep Hope Alive” resonated throughout the day.
Attendees were warmly welcomed with coffee and breakfast, setting a positive tone despite the cold weather. Broadcast journalist Art Norman started the program with a call to action, invoking Rev. Jesse Jackson’s iconic phrase. He encouraged everyone to reflect on their contributions to the community, echoing Dr. King’s timeless question: “What are you doing for other people?”
Norman shared the historical significance of Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, crediting NAACP’s Benjamin Hooks for championing its establishment. His remarks underscored the importance of collective memory in honoring Dr. King’s legacy, a theme that set the stage for the day’s discussions.
Rev. Jim Wallis, a prominent theologian and political activist, emphasized the urgent need to revive the spirit of hope in today’s tumultuous political landscape. He distinguished hope from mere optimism, framing it as a conscious choice grounded in faith.
“That’s our job,” Wallis declared, highlighting the necessity of keeping hope alive as a slogan and a way of life. He poignantly reminded the audience of Dr. King’s vision for a just society, calling on faith leaders to act as the moral conscience of the nation.
The event featured a multicultural panel moderated by Dr. Stephen Thurston, which brought together a diverse group of faith leaders. This dynamic discussion centered on joy, justice and the crucial role of faith in social advocacy. Rev. Maisha Handy spoke about joy as an act of resistance, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces for marginalized communities to experience sustainable joy beyond traditional church services.
Rev. Reginald Sharpe Jr. called for a return to an unfiltered representation of Jesus, challenging sanitized images that often dominate mainstream narratives. He stressed that authentic faith must reflect the struggles and triumphs of all people. The panelists collectively underscored the intertwined nature of joy and justice, advocating for a church that actively engages in the fight for social change.
When Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D-Ill.) spoke, he emphasized the importance of honoring Dr. King not just in name but in action.
He articulated the significance of placing the title “Reverend” before “Doctor,” reminding the audience of the profound spiritual calling that informed Rev Dr. King’s activism. Jackson shared an intimate anecdote about when Rev. Dr. King advised his father, Rev. Jackson, on the transformative power of faith over traditional education. “What would Rev. Dr. King be doing today?” he asked, challenging everyone to consider their role in continuing his legacy.
With a fiery determination, Jackson urged the crowd to take action, declaring, “Now is the time we fight back!” His words ignited a wave of applause, and at that moment, the assembly hall was filled with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to justice, along with a beautiful ray of sunshine.
As the day unfolded, Jahmal Cole, founder of “My Block, My Hood, My City,” shared his own journey of resilience and community upliftment, further motivating attendees. The event culminated in service activities, where participants packed lunches and organized food pantry kitchens, embodying the spirit of community service that Rev. Dr. King championed.
The Day of Service and Learning was a powerful reminder that hope, activism and faith are interconnected.
The messages of “Keep Hope Alive” and the collective resolve to uplift one another resonated deeply, inspiring all to commit to the ongoing fight for justice and equity in honor of Rev. Dr. King’s enduring legacy.