Shown in photo is Mrs. Coretta Scott King shaking hands with Sandré Swanson during a visit to Oakland, California. She Is being escorted by the Honorable Judge James S. White as Alfonzo Galloway, Rusty Jackson, and others look on.

Swanson Shook Hands With A King

By Sandré R. Swanson

Almost three decades ago I had the extraordinary opportunity to meet Mrs. Coretta Scott King. Mrs. King carrying on her husband’s legacy was coming to Oakland, California in response to yet another community’s call for assistance. We know about the great moments like the Birmingham, Alabama campaign to end segregation at lunch counters, the historic March on Washington and Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. What impressed me most was that Mrs. King always made time to help communities like Oakland in our struggle for social justice and equality.

There are moments in your life when you know that something special is happening; and to shake hands with and to meet Mrs. Coretta Scott King was one such inspirational moment. I remember the short extension of my hand and Mrs. King taking my hand with both of hers. She acknowledged my welcome to Oakland with such grace, dignity, and power of presence that I will always remember that hand shake.

Mrs. King helped me understand that each generation has the responsibility to honor the work or the last and make their contribution to the next generation. We all should honor Mrs. King’s legacy of social justice by helping our children realize their dreams.

Note: Sandré R. Swanson for thirty years served as Chief of Staff and District Director for Congresswoman Barbara Lee and Congressman Ronald V Dellums.