The Equity Extra

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a social activist and Baptist minister who played a key role in the American civil rights movement from the mid-1950s until his assassination in 1968. King sought equality and human rights for African Americans, the economically disadvantaged, and all victims of injustice through peaceful protest. He was the driving force behind watershed events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the 1963 March on Washington, which helped bring about such landmark legislation as the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act. King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 and is remembered each year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a U.S. federal holiday since 1986.

People are encouraged to use the day to “reflect on the principles of racial equality and nonviolent social change espoused by Dr. King.” The holiday is typically observed with events such as marches and rallies and speeches by Schools, politicians, and civil rights leaders.

Commit to serving, attending, and marching with family and friends to acknowledge and celebrate the impact that Dr. King’s life has had on each of you. Commit to continuing His work not just on January 16th but every day.

Check your community for any activities and marches that are happening!

We, as a District, are embracing Equity. We do this for many reasons, specifically for underserved communities within our Schools. For those students and staff that need us to stand with them, to validate and see them for who they are and where they come from. We do this because we haven’t reached the mountaintop and yet are still striving to get to the promised land…metaphorically.

The Promised Land was where you did not have to march for your dignity. It was where you did not have to sing for your freedom. It was where there was no need for speeches to verify your humanity. The Promised Land was that sacred place where all of God's children would stand as equals on level, fertile ground.

Eugene has so much Black Legacy, so many Social Justice activists, movers, and shakers. We shout out to and honor each of you today and every day for your service and commitment to our community. We see you!

STILL WE RISE

Ann Christianson

North Region Equity Manager

A small group of 4J educators attended the Civil Rights Journey. A unique, powerful experience exploring the history of the civil rights struggle in America. The group traveled to sites throughout the South that defined the Civil Rights Movement’s most critical moments.

The Equity Library has over 99 titles handpicked by the Directors of Equity and the Equity team. These titles show an in-depth look at the various issues that go hand and hand with equity, race, and inclusion.

Books can be checked out using the form below and will be sent to individuals via interoffice mail. Books need to be returned to the Equity Department 3 weeks after the borrowing date.

Please use this form to check out books from the library.