The Dream continues to live on. As members of The Gramblinite, tired and exhausted from the Southeastern Journalism Conference, paid a visit to the King Center, they did not know what an experience it would be.
“Initially, I didn’t want to go, due to changes in the weather,” said Shemekila Quarles, a Gramblinite staff member. “However, I later thought it would be a good experience especially since Mrs. King passed recently.”
Upon arrival, many members of The Gramblinite were in awe of the presence that the tombs of Dr. Martin Luther King and Coretta Scott King.
“Going to the King Center made me take a real look at the privileges that we enjoy today,” said Michael Grant, managing editor of The Gramblinite. “Their efforts were a success, and I was glad to visit the home of their achievements.”
Patrick Thompson, sophomore Gramblinite staffer, also felt the significance of the King Center.
“I think it’s an important part of history that everybody should experience at some point in their lifetime,” the staff writer said.
The King Center has a main fountain that flows from the entrance of the museum holding important artifacts to the tomb of Dr. King to the exit of the King Center. The water seemed to contradict the weather, as the bright blue water shared a backdrop against a cloudy, gray sky.
As the wind picked up, some of the 650,000 annual visitors headed inside, where warmth and a gift shop awaited. Quarles couldn’t help herself as she walked through the shop, picking up King’s Strength To Love and reprinted copies of his “I have a Dream” and “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speeches. Quarles, however, picked up more than just memorabilia.
“I gained a better appreciation for Dr. and Mrs. King’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement,” she said afterwards. “I believe all African-Americans should go and visit the King Center.
“It was a lovely and wonderful experience.”
The King Center has been going through controversy lately, as the four King children are embattled over the decision to sell the King Center to the National Park Service.
Despite the controversy, one Gramblinite member has stated he will return.
“I am anxious to get back and visit again once they have moved Coretta next to Martin Luther King Jr.,” said Thompson.