Response to Martin Luther King Jr.'s "i Have a Dream" Speech

Response to Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" Speech

The future equals opportunity for every American of all races according to Martin Luther King Jr. Not just the wealthy white male landowners who had most of the power, but opportunity for everyone. This was exactly what Mr. King was constantly emphasizing throughout his unforgettable "I Have a Dream" speech. Phrases such as "cashing a check of justice," "we cannot turn back," "this is the day when all of god's children will be able to sing without meaning," "Now is the time," and "opportunity is to be free! Free of oppression." By utilizing time as a symbol for opportunity, he carefully illustrates to his fellow Americans that change from older, unprogressive thoughts is necessary. He uses the sense of urgency and time to get his listeners in the moment. He tries to make them understand that they sat back and let this go on long enough. He urges the need to fight back and make a stand now. He begins by recognizing the significance of the Emancipation Proclamation as a "momentous decree" but, quickly identifies its improper and unfortunate faults. "America has defaulted on its promissory note, insofar as her citizens of color are concerned." However, it is unfair that even though they had the right idea as far as opportunity for fortune, I do not think they could have foreseen an America with such a cultural diversity. Either that or, they were being naïve. Either way, it is something that Martin Luther King Jr. is pointing out as a problem with the preexisting ideal of opportunity. "And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream." The "American Dream" is the opportunity to live with the freedoms to make money, own land, and create a great life for yourself. All Mr. King wanted was for this "Dream" to refer to every American of all race or ethnicity. The Dream we have the privilege of living today.

...