What We Get Wrong about MLK

“A sea of MLK.” That’s what one colleague said to me about what she saw all over the internet the week leading up to and of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. While King was an extraordinary man, let’s also recognize the impact on him by other Black American heroes like Claudette Colvin, Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks and the truth behind her and the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

While King accomplished much, it is a disservice to his supporters, colleagues, and the community around him to miss their contributions by focusing solely on King in light of the Civil Rights movement.

Many individuals were instrumental in paving the way for King and his message, so his impact can only be fully understood by acknowledging the influence of those who history forgot or misunderstood.

Honor MLK, his impact on others, AND the impact other Black Americans had on him while covering important reading and ELA skills. Give your students a deeper appreciation for the work of MLK with the songs below.

Claudette Colvin history rap song

Malcolm X Biography Rap Song

The Truth about Rosa Parks and the Bus Boycott

Thanks for reading and enjoy the holiday! More content coming soon.

Until then, 

Happy teaching!

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