Martin Luther King, Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ is an acclaimed piece of literature highlighting the struggles and success of the civil rights movement. In this letter, written from a prison in Alabama, Martin Luther King, Jr. responds to criticism from the local white clergymen in one of the most inspirational and undeniable pleas for civil rights during America’s civil rights era. Through this letter, King imparts the importance of taking action in the pursuit of justice and displayed a remarkable ability to fight for civil rights without falling victim to despair or anger.
The Letter from Birmingham Jail was written by Martin Luther King, Jr. in April of 1963. This was an apt time for King’s words, as the civil rights movement was in full swing and the unequal treatment of black citizens was widely evident throughout the United States. To counter this injustice, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) had organized numerous protests against segregation that had brought attention to the cause. However, these protests led to numerous arrests and jail sentences. King found himself in jail as a result of these protests and here he received a letter from eight white clergymen condemning the actions of the SCLC.
In response to this letter, King composed a vigorous response which became known as the ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail.’ In this letter, King defends his decision to engage in non-violent direct action, of which the clergymen’s criticism accused him of being an extremist. King states, “Extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice.” King not only defends his organization's actions, but also communicates his disappointment that the clergymen did not support the movement. King indicates that the clergymen, who were supporters of justice, have ultimately chosen to follow a path of inaction at a time when awareness and action are essential.
Furthermore, Martin Luther King, Jr. uses facts to further strengthen his argument for civil rights. He cites examples of past civil rights successes, such as the American Revolution, that prove that direct actions can be successful. King also expresses the hardship and oppression that black Americans face in the south, questioning why those in support of justice remained silent while the blacks were severely oppressed. He also speaks on the importance of the white people to join the movement, expressing that, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
In his letter, Martin Luther King, Jr. brings attention to the hypocrisy of the clergymen’s claims. He states, “ Throughout Alabama all sorts of deceptions are used to prevent Negroes from becoming registered voters”, thus questioning the clergymen’s claim of being supporters of justice when such injustice remains obvious. King also acknowledges that some may be left with the wrong perception that non-violent direct action is unwise and untimely. Instead of reprimanding those who criticize, King employs the sensible strategy of educating them on the consequences of injustice and how they can combat it.
Martin Luther King, Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ is an expression of great courage and the power of non-violent direct action in relation to civil rights. Despite being written from jail, King’s words still echo and enlighten us in many ways. Through this letter, we find the conviction and determination of a leader ready to take on the battle for justice no matter the environment or circumstance. The legacy of the Letter from Birmingham Jail will continue to motivate generations to stand together and fight for justice.
