by Anthony J. Marsella, Ph.D.
Note from Kathie MM: In this month during which we honor Martin Luther King, Jr., it is a pleasure to honor also another wonderful role model for peace and social justice, Coretta Scott King–the great woman not behind but beside the great man.
A special word of praise and gratitude is deserved for Coretta Scott-King (April 27, 1927-January 30, 2006), wife and life partner of Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., for 15 years, and an icon in her own right. Their partnership altered the history and future of the United States.
Coretta Scott-King was a tireless partner, and co-worker for civil rights and social change. She continued Reverend King’s work following his assassination, and assumed new responsibilities deserving recognition and honor.
A talented musical artist, Mrs. King graduated from highly respected Antioch College, Yellow Springs, Ohio, where she majored in music and education; she then went on to the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music, in Boston, Massachusetts, majoring in voice and violin. It was in Boston she met Reverend King, who was studying for his doctorate at Boston University. They were married on June 18, 1953.
Ms. King was active in developing many freedom music and poetry concerts; she was imbued with the spirit of human dignity, rights, and opportunities; she was a partner in Reverend King’s efforts. She joined Reverend King in national and global struggles for freedom, traveling with him on his many trips to Africa, Europe, and India. She was an international leader, organizing numerous international conferences, coalitions, and peace and human rights marches, gatherings, and demonstrations.
Throughout her marriage, Coretta Scott-King was an active partner with Reverend King in advancing the cause of racial justice and non-violence. Mrs.King was anointed with the calling to heal abuse, violence, and injustice in the USA and across the world. Following Reverend King’s death, Coretta Scott-King continued advocating for justice, equality, and freedom.
Coretta Scott-King is buried next to her husband in Atlanta, Georgia, in the national shrine which she helped develop: The King Center for Nonviolent Social Change.
Ms. King was the force behind the successful drive to declare Reverend King’s birthday a national holiday. Clearly, more should be done to honor Coretta Scott-King for her personal contributions, and for her many contributions to Reverend King’s efforts to create a more peaceful and just society.
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