As we step into February, we enter a month of opportunities ranging from observance of the silly or festive to a serious reflection of our nation and its history. Whether it is Groundhog Day, Valentine’s Day, or Fat Tuesday, each brings its unique significance (or lack of significance) depending on our own personal experience and perspective. February also marks Black History Month — a time for all of us to honor the achievements and struggles of African Americans throughout U.S. history.
Black History Month, initially a week-long celebration, has evolved into a month-long acknowledgment and celebration of the critical role African Americans have played in building and shaping our nation. It is a time to reflect on the progress made as well as the journey that lies ahead. This month let’s celebrate not just the well-known figures but also the unsung heroes who have made and are making these contributions to our society. Let’s also remind ourselves that we ourselves can be those unsung heroes as well, both professionally and personally.
I recently attended KCBA’s Annual MLK Luncheon which is always a profoundly impactful and inspiring event. Daniel Hsieh and his committee put together a program that not only honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy, but also provoked deep thought and introspection and made a call to action.
The timely and impassioned words of keynote speaker Dr. Eddie Glaude, Jr. touched everyone in the room. He eloquently reminded us that celebrating Dr. King isn’t just about recognizing and honoring a historical figure, it’s also about acknowledging the ordinary individuals who risked everything for the democracy of our country and calling for us all to do our part whenever our times challenge democracy and justice.
Dr. Glaude asked us to question whether current celebrations of figures like Dr. King actually reflect American “goodness” or, instead, provide convenient and collective means to shy away from the harsh reality of the racism, injustice, and inequality that still pervade our country — letting us ignore the mountain of work that still needs to be done.
This question becomes especially pertinent as we approach an election that poses significant risks to our democracy, including attempts to limit voting rights, undermine the rule of law, and restrict women’s healthcare choices.
Dr. Glaude highlighted the dangerous transformation of fear and uncertainty into hatred, often directed at the already marginalized. As lawyers, we have a responsibility to stand against this hatred, to use our power to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. We must be brave enough to ask difficult questions and confront uncomfortable truths.
Recognizing and addressing the racism entrenched in our society is crucial. Our conversations must be honest and introspective. We must listen, learn, and strive to find common ground that unites us in our pursuit of a just society. Dr. Glaude also urged us to examine our own circles, challenging those we love who harbor views that threaten our democracy. I agree. In my view, truthful confrontation with those we care about is an ultimate act of love. As much as those conversations can be uncomfortable, they are unsung acts and essential requirements to protect our society in these fragile moments.
We are lawyers. We are called to confront these challenges head-on. Our profession is built on the principles of justice and equality. Most of us entered this profession with optimism, believing in the power of the law to effect change and protect the vulnerable. Yet the daily grind of legal practice can sometimes obscure that vision. It can erode or exhaust our vigilance. Now, more than ever, we must reconnect with that initial passion and purpose.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Glaude reminded us that Dr. King made the act of assuming personal responsibility for alleviating social harms common and ordinary and habitual. He told us a story from Toni Morrison. Asked by Dr. King’s son (Martin Luther King III) what she would want to know from him if she could have one more conversation with him, she realized her actual question would be “would he be disappointed in me? Did I do enough?”
It is a profound question. It should prompt us all to ask ourselves: would our former idealistic law-student selves be disappointed when it comes to what we are actually doing to promote social justice and protect democracy? Are we doing as much as we can? Are we being honest with ourselves about the state of this country and our society? I can only answer for myself, and my honest answer is probably not. Or at least not enough.
But that personal answer should not dishearten us; it should spur us into action. As we face the coming year, let’s remember that as lawyers we have the power and personal responsibility to defend American democracy, uphold the rule of law, and build a truly just country. This is our call to be the change.
