Our state engaged in slavery, sided with the Confederate Army in the Civil War, enforced Jim Crow laws, and segregated schools. This was the south before Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement began. I won't go into all the details of what Dr. King accomplished and contributed during his time on earth. Hopefully you already know and if not I highly suggest you research the work of this extraordinary man. Read his "Letter from Birmingham Jail" and you will get a glimpse of his remarkable passion and intelligence. Thanks to Dr. King and the Civil Rights Bill, black men and women in Louisiana and the south were finally afforded the rights they deserved. Throughout my life I've spoken with many of those who were around during Dr. King's time and the love they have for him knows no bounds. They recall how they felt when he delivered his "I Have A Dream" speech in 1963. They praise his leadership, how he fought for what he knew was right even when many were telling him to "wait". Many of them participated in sit-ins, boycotts, marches, and other non-violent protests. Their stories are a constant reminder of what one can do, even when facing seemingly insurmountable odds.

Dr. King was the central figure for Civil Rights but even now our country deals with the burden of racism. The south in particular has been slow to shed it's racist mind-set. Where we're from a Grand Wizard from the KKK finished second in the 1991 election for governor. In some small southern towns there are still segregated school events such as prom and homecoming dances. An entire city filled with minorities was abandoned and people were left for dead after a devastating hurricane just a few years ago. This does not mean Dr. King and the civil rights movement failed. It simply means there is more work to be done and we have to be the ones to do it.

Racism is not as socially acceptable as it once was but it still exists. In addition to racism we must push back against all forms of hate and prejudice towards a people. Discrimination towards those with certain religious beliefs is wide spread but flat out wrong. Denying someone civil rights based on their sexual orientation is a travesty and should not be accepted. Our generation should work hard to make sure when we leave this world it will be a more accepting, loving, and understanding place.

I apologize for the lengthy post. Usually we keep it light and fun but I believe it is extremely important for us to remember people like Dr. King and his message. Here's to truly honoring his memory and hoping we make him proud.