As we do our work in today’s world, there are those of us who will become the names and faces of a movement familiar to generations to come. Some will be the courageous storytellers who share their experiences of victimization, upon whose shoulders we will stand. There will be countless unknown volunteers giving their time, resources, and emotional support, and financial donations. Each person’s contribution is meaningful.
The Montgomery Bus Boycott is a shining example. Long before the boycott had a start date, local organizers were planning. Mrs. Park’s arrest was the tipping point, and they were ready. Years of preparations kicked into gear. Hundreds of people circulated notices of the details of the boycott. The entire black community and many white allies agreed and stayed the course. Whether they were part of the planning committees or drove a shuttle or eased the nerves of the crowds or advocated for plaintiffs in court, each person played their part. Each person helped, supporting the community of activists and fueling the movement for integration.
“The moral arc of the universe is long, but bends towards justice.” These words are attributed to Dr. King and yet the sentiment was first penned by abolitionist Theodore Parker in 1853. Often we do not get to see the full outcome of the work we do. Each of our contributions help pull that arc towards justice. Fighting for justice is hard and often daunting. The good news is you are not alone. In fact, you never were. We do this work not just for the present relief, but for the hope of a better, more justice-filled future: a society that recognizes the humanity and dignity of everyone equally. We stand on the shoulders of those who did this work before us and we stand tall.
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