Letter to the Community: 'A Single Act of Solidarity' by Ceasar C. Mitchell

A Single Act of Solidarity

Author: Ceasar C. Mitchell – Atlanta City Council President

Certain events are so powerful that we can remember where we were and what we were doing when they occurred.  Where were you when Barack Obama became the first African-American President of the United States?  Can you remember your whereabouts when the world said goodbye to President John F. Kennedy and Michael Jackson?  For the younger generations, where were you when Beyoncé performed the Super Bowl halftime show (you remember!)?  Whether light-hearted or difficult, every once in a while something monumental happens that captivates our hearts and inspires our souls.  Sometimes it is an event in which everyone can play a part. Such an occasion is upon us now.

On Wednesday, August 28th at 3:00pm EST, we will commemorate the 50th anniversary of one of the greatest moments in global history – the 1963 March On Washington during which Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his monumental I Have A Dream speech.  Join me in support of the King family and the King Center for Non-violent Social Change as they host the official “Let Freedom Ring Bell-Ringing Ceremony.”  No matter where you are, you can participate in this special moment in history.  Here’s how:

• Stop right now and set the alarm on your cell phone to sound at 3:00pm EST on Wednesday, August 28th.  This is something that practically everyone can do.  You can even download a bell ringing app at www.mlkdream50.com.

The March On Washington was an event that marked history and advanced the cause of Civil and Human Rights.  Imagine how different our nation might be had the March never taken place.  Although we still face many challenges as a country, what if the social change catalyzed by the civil rights movement had never manifested?  But, let us also imagine our world 50 years from now if we fail to weave together the threads of unity that create the tapestry of Dr. King’s beloved community.  Only through working together can we achieve the alignment of heart and mind that will reaffirm our interconnectedness and inspire the creativity and innovation which has made our country great.  

To that end, let us all take a few seconds to acknowledge the significance of the March on Washington by engaging in a single act of solidarity.  Let’s create an inspirational moment in time that we can reflect upon with our family, friends and colleagues.  Share your plans to let freedom ring within your social media circle using the hashtag #MLKBellsATL.  Encourage everyone in your reach to participate in a manner acceptable for them.  If you are not in Atlanta, feel free to change the end of the hashtag to reflect your locale.  Let’s come together and commemorate history and be inspired for the future…LET FREEDOM RING!