Do you think that there is still racial injustice in America today? Many people have tried to change the racial injustices in our nation such as Martin Luther King Jr., Duke Ellington and even everyday people like you and me.
Martin Luther King Jr. made a huge difference in our nation in many ways. Some ways would be he lead the Montgomery Bus boycott. He also helped to make it so that black and white kids could go tot school together. He organized the march on Washington where he gave his most famous speech about having a dream. On the third Monday in January each year, we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. day in America. Martin Luther King Jr. made a huge difference in our nation through his involvement in many movements.
Another historic person of color is Duke Ellington, the famous Jazz musician. His challenge was that not many African American's were allowed in the establishments where he wanted to play his music. He had to work hard to prove that he was an amazing musician. Duke Ellington influenced many musicians during the 1920's and 1930's in Washington D.C. Duke Ellington influenced future musicians like Louis Armstrong as well. Duke Ellington made a historic difference in our nation by sharing the love of Jazz music with all races in America. As you have read, Duke Ellington had a very long career in music and influenced many future musicians.
What I have done or can do to make a difference in my home, school or community is respect people of all races and religions. I can make sure that I do not laugh at jokes that hurt people or make fun of people of color. I can introduce myself to new students at my school that may of different ethnic backgrounds. I can also intervene if I see a racial injustice happening and try to stop it from happening. There are many ways that I can behave to show that I want to help stop any injustices that may happen to others just because they are of a different racial background than I am.
Today we are still working to end racial injustices in our nation. You and I can learn from the leaders of the past to make this happen. Racial injustice can be ended but it will take hard work from learning from the past and working towards a better future.
