Honoring MLK’s Legacy at A.C.T. to End Racism Rally

April 4, 2018

On the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King’s assassination, we were proud to gather in the nation’s capital with thousands of people of all faiths, races, and backgrounds to denounce white supremacy and demand an end to systemic racism.

This was no commemoration; this was no memorial—this was a revitalization of Dr. King’s work. They took his life 50 years ago, but his spirit and his legacy continue to energize and inspire.

As the sun rose over the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC,

We began a silent march at the Martin Luther King, Jr., Memorial.

Under cherry blossoms and past the Washington Monument, we reflected on MLK’s life and work.

Marchers carried signs calling for unity

and demanding justice.

Activists and faith leaders from across the country reminded us that Dr. King was not just a martyr, but an agitator and revolutionary

and that it’s up to all of us to complete his work.

The skies darkened, the wind blew, and the rain came

but Marvin Sapp and his choir kept the crowd dancing and smiling.

The Release Dance Company embodied the day’s energy and unity.

Rev. Raphael Warnock, pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, preached that though it may be dark, the morning is coming.

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

Our co-founders, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, told their story, highlighting the fact that if they were Black, Ben & Jerry’s may not have come to exist.

But every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. Every person deserves to live a life free of violence and injustice.

It’s up to all of us to make Dr. King’s dream a reality, to build this movement based on joy and love.

50 years after Dr. King’s death, much work remains to be done. But we’ve never felt so much hope—and we’ve never seen such determination. Now’s the time. Let’s get to work.