Born: 1927 (Heiberger, Alabama)
Died: 2006
Biography:
Coretta Scott King, born on April 27, 1927, in Heiberger, Alabama, was an American author, activist, and civil rights leader. She is most famously known as the wife of Martin Luther King Jr. and for her extensive work in advocating for African-American equality. Coretta played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement in the 1960s and continued to be a prominent figure even after her husband’s assassination in 1968.
Growing up in a modest household, Coretta was the third of four children born to Obadiah Scott and Bernice McMurry Scott. Her mother, who had a remarkable singing voice, became a crucial influence in her life. Despite facing limited educational opportunities in her community, Coretta’s siblings were fortunate enough to attend boarding school at the prestigious Tuskegee Institute. This educational disparity motivated Coretta to excel academically and become a driving force for change.
Coretta’s path intersected with Martin Luther King Jr. while they were both attending graduate school in Boston. Their shared passion for civil rights ignited a powerful connection, and they married in 1953. Coretta, alongside her husband, became increasingly involved in the American civil rights movement, advocating for racial equality and justice.
Following Martin Luther King Jr.’s tragic assassination in 1968, Coretta stepped into a leadership role, taking up the mantle to continue the struggle for racial equality. She became actively involved in the Women’s Movement and played a vital part in advocating for equal rights not just for African Americans, but for all marginalized communities. Coretta founded the King Center, an organization dedicated to promoting nonviolent social change. Her unwavering determination and commitment to her husband’s dream helped solidify his legacy and impact long after his death.
One of Coretta’s notable achievements was her relentless pursuit to establish Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday as a national holiday. After years of advocacy and perseverance, she succeeded when President Ronald Reagan signed legislation establishing Martin Luther King Jr. Day on November 2, 1983. This monumental achievement not only honored her late husband’s legacy but also served as a reminder to the nation of the ongoing fight for equality and justice.
Coretta’s impact extended beyond civil rights advocacy. She recognized the importance of intersectionality and broadened her scope to support LGBTQ rights and oppose apartheid. Her dedication to inclusivity and equality made her a beloved figure among diverse communities, and she formed friendships with influential politicians such as John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Robert F. Kennedy.
In August 2005, tragedy struck when Coretta suffered a debilitating stroke, leaving her paralyzed on her right side and unable to speak. Despite her illness, she remained an inspiration to many, demonstrating courage and resilience. Sadly, Coretta passed away on January 30, 2006, due to respiratory failure caused by ovarian cancer. Her funeral was attended by thousands of mourners, including several U.S. presidents.
Coretta Scott King’s unwavering dedication to the civil rights movement and her tireless efforts to combat injustice earned her the title First Lady of the Civil Rights Movement. Her extraordinary contributions continue to shape American society and inspire future generations to strive for a more equitable and inclusive world.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame
– Inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame
– First African American to lie in state at the Georgia State Capitol