I grew up one block from the offices of the Montgomery Improvement Association, SCLC, and NAACP, where I saw all of our great leaders. I, along with other members of my family, joined our neighbors for sit-ins, marches, and rallies led by Dr. King, James Bevel, James Orange, Stokeley Carmichael, and so many others.
The most memorable was when I met the Selma to Montgomery Marchers on the grounds of my elementary school, at the City of St. Jude's. Though young, I knew that desegregation would happen and that it would change our lives.
When schools were integrated, I was one of the first two black students to attend the Cloverdale Middle School, in Montgomery. That experience convinced me that I was an example of Dr. King's dream and my mother's vision.
I was the first in my family of eight to finish college, retired from the military after 21 years as an active duty officer, and now own a consulting practice and teach in a doctoral business program. I also travel the world speaking and facilitating a number of different types of workshops, to include those focused on nonviolence.
For me the dream is still alive, and in these ways, I continue to share this vital message of hope.
Copyright © Rubye Howard Braye, 2000
Copyright © 2006
Last Modified: June 24, 2006.
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