Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Inspiring Words

Honoring Martin Luther King Jr. by highlighting some of his most inspirational quotes that have ignited a spark in other to create a change.

By Amber Cooper

Today marks the birth date of the most inspiring civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr. King is widely known for his “I Have a Dream” speech and his work for equal rights amongst black people. Today, King is still being honored for his riveting work and powerful words. 

In order to honor King’s legacy, here is a list of some of King’s most inspirational quotes that have sparked changed and uplifted individuals across the world. 


  1. “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
  2. “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
  3. “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
  4.  “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”
  5. “The time is always right to do what is right.”

This year, Jan. 20, 2020 marks the 25th anniversary of the day of service celebrating King’s life and legacy. 

To participate in MLK day, WHUR has partnered with United Way of the National Capital Area for a Dr. King Day Stuff the Bus Book Drive. More information can be found here. This is a day of being on and not off by participating in all acts of service.