In a powerful address to a packed lecture hall of over 150 students at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center on Thursday, Arndrea Waters King, wife of Martin Luther King III, emphasized the critical role that voting plays in shaping the future of our democracy. Her visit coincides with the upcoming November 5 election, where she urged students to understand the significance of their votes.
King’s Message To Bowie State Students
King drew on historical milestones, referencing the brutal attack on the Edmond Pettus Bridge, the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the sacrifices made by civil rights leaders such as Medgar Evers and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Everyone believes we have seen enough chaos in the country,” said King. “Students need to really understand how powerful they are and how critical they are to not only create a better world for all of us, but certainly make sure Dr. King’s dream of a beloved community becomes a reality.”
Bowie State University President Aminta Breaux expressed her gratitude for King’s presence at the event. “We’re both honored and privileged to have Arndrea Waters King attend an election event at the university,” Breaux remarked. “She carries the legacy of Dr. King we want students to know about.”
As the president of the Drum Major Institute, a non-profit social justice organization, King leads efforts to unite leaders and organizations in developing common-sense solutions to societal challenges. The DMI promotes action to foster peace, justice, and equity for all.
In preparation for the upcoming election, Bowie State has planned a series of voter registration and education initiatives to assist students in understanding the importance of exercising their right to vote. Notably, Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, Congressman Steny Hoyer, and Governor Wes Moore also participated in the event. They highlighted the historical context surrounding voting rights and civil rights in the United States, while encouraging students to register and make their voices heard at the polls.
