Coretta Scott King, born on April 27, 1927, in Heiberger, Alabama, was a prominent civil rights leader, educator, and advocate for social justice. She met Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. while studying at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, and they married in 1953. As the wife of one of the most iconic leaders of the civil rights movement, Coretta Scott King played an essential role in supporting and advancing the movement’s goals. She became a steadfast partner in her husband’s work, organizing marches, rallies, and events, and often stepping into the spotlight when needed. After the tragic assassination of her husband in 1968, Coretta Scott King dedicated herself to continuing his legacy, working tirelessly for civil rights, women’s rights, and peace.
Coretta Scott King’s advocacy was instrumental in the establishment of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta, which serves as a living memorial to Dr. King’s philosophy of nonviolence and social justice. She also worked to ensure that Dr. King’s birthday would be recognized as a national holiday, a fight that was won in 1983. Beyond her advocacy for racial equality, she was deeply committed to global peace, environmental justice, and the rights of women and children. Coretta Scott King’s legacy as a fierce and compassionate leader continues to inspire future generations of activists and is a testament to her resilience and commitment to building a more just and compassionate world.
