Summer of 1963: Dr. Martin Luther spoke at Peanut Park In Suffolk, and 60 days later, he gave the "I had a dream" speech in D.C.

Article 2 Volume 13                                        August 28, 2023

Dr. Martin Luther King's speech at the Lincoln Memorial on this date in 1963, informed the citizens and the US government what African Americans wanted in the United States. The speech wasn't just about Dr. King's dream, it was about the demand by Civil Rights organizations for the right to vote, full access to jobs and education, and an end to segregated public accommodations. This speech resonated with people worldwide.

Background

In the Spring of 1963, I returned to the United States after a 2-year tour of military duty in France. I spent 30 days in Suffolk before reporting to Ft Chaffee in Fort Smith, Arkansas. It was a challenge for me to return to all the segregation that existed in the city.  Things were just different to me, after living in an integrated environment for two years.  I adjusted because I was still in the military. I got involved with the local NAACP.  We were making plans for Dr. King to visit Suffolk in June.  However, in late May, Dr. Freddie Shuttlesworth met with us in Union Hall and advised that Dr. King would be unable to come in June due to his demanding schedule.  Dr. Shuttlesworth gave us a good encouraging speech.

Then, on or about June 22, 1963, Dr. King sent word that he would be able to stop in Suffolk on June 28, 1963.  That was good news!  The local Civil Rights leaders immediately went into action,  They confirmed that Peanut Park would be available.  They notified the local newspapers, radio stations, and churches and posted notices where deemed necessary in and around town. 

It is estimated that on the night of the speech, a crowd of about 7,000 showed up.  This attendance was the largest gathering of afro Americans in Suffolk's history. Dr. King's speech was immaculate and inspiring. It gave hope to the Negroes (that's what we were called back then, and we didn't get upset about it) that a change was coming. 

Civil Rights Encounters and Deaths

Following are some of the ordeals

a.  Medgar Evers, was gunned down in Mississippi. All he wanted to do was attend an all-white state university.  b.  In May 1963, police used dogs, fire hoses, and clubs on peaceful marchers in Montgomery, Alabama. c. A church was bombed, killing 4 young black children in Montgomery, Alabama.  

If you want to know about our trials and tribulations in the Summer and year of 1963, go to the internet and do some self-study, because there is a push in the country, these days to make sure you don't learn anything about black history.

I encourage you to read, study, and read some more about the trials and tribulations we have endured; and be active in ensuring that we do not go backward in our pursuit of total freedom.

In churches, we talk about the Jews and their fight for freedom.  Let us, also talk, preach, and teach about our ordeals.  We don't have to wait until February or Black History Month.

Copyright 2023, Grady E. Bryant, Sr. All Rights Reserved.