Almost fifty years ago, the world lost its most prominent leader in the civil rights movement, Dr. Martin Luther King, Ir. He was a véry influential in his pursuit for racial equality in the United States. Johnnie Mae Perkins, of Memphis, Tennessee, reminisces on the power of his voice and the impact of his words. Various media samples broadcasted across the world showed passionate response to civil injustices and King's assassination. A discussion with Ms. P. gives insight on the citizens of the time, and how some reacted to the tragedies that took place in 1968.
At the young age of twenty-six, Johnnie Mae P. was busy taking care of her three children, and working at the Rosewood Retirement Center. When looking back on the '60s, she remembers the segregation in the city. A popular diner by the name of Grant's enforced segregated seating. Ms. P. complied with Iim Crow without a fight, unlike the many who fought and protested against injustice. The night of the assassination, a curfew was enforced, by the time she left work; her children were already safe at home. In the tight-knit neighborhood of Binghampton, Ms. P. did not witness any protests first-hand, but only through media outlets, like radio and television. She and her neighbors participated in an open discussion on the assassination, and how it affected them. They were all shocked that the killer was able to get away so quickly, without being seen. Dr. King was an influential leader in the fight for equal rights. His strides enlightened the country and made a way for people like Ms. Johnnie Mae P. to be free to experience their own city. Now, she enjoys going anywhere she wants, when she wants. She aspires to be a role model for her children and grandchildren; she also wants them to carry Dr. King's beliefs and strategies in a way to make their future brighter.