Martin Luther King, Jr.

America officially celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr. every year in January. However, King’s words and image are with us every day. The Inventory of American Sculpture lists the many memorials to King around country. Does your town or city have one of these memorials? Click on the title of each sculpture to see the full information, including where each work is located. On several of these memorials there are quotes by King inscribed on the base or on a plaque, including phrases from his famous “I have a dream” speech.

Pictured here is the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Carved on his robe are scenes from the Civil Rights Movement. The front of the base of this sculpture reads:

"Non-violence is a powerful and just
weapon. It is a weapon unique in
history which cuts without wounding,
and enables the man who wields it.
It is a sword that heals. "

The Smithsonian also has in its collection many works related to Martin Luther King, Jr., including photographs, paintings, papers, sound recordings, sculptures, and books.

Enjoy exploring these treasures!

Nicole Semenchuk, Research Databases, Smithsonian American Art Museum