Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: The Story Behind “I Have a Dream”
January 20, 2025
Did you know that the legendary “I Have a Dream” refrain was not part of Dr. King’s original speech draft?
Today, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we want to highlight a fascinating blog from the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture that uncovers a lesser-known story behind one of the most iconic speeches of the 20th century.
In preparation for the March on Washington on August 28, 1963, Dr. King and his advisors carefully crafted a four-minute speech. While the phrase “I Have a Dream” had been used in previous addresses, it was excluded from the final draft due to some advisors’ hesitations. However, during his address on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, gospel singer Mahalia Jackson encouraged King to “tell them about the dream,” prompting him to depart from his prepared remarks. This powerful, improvised section resonated deeply and has since become a defining moment in American history.
The Smithsonian blog further shares that an original copy of the speech, which omits the “I Have a Dream” phrase, will be on display this August in the museum’s “A Changing America” exhibition. Loaned by Villanova University, this artifact offers a glimpse into the evolution of one of the most influential speeches ever delivered.
In addition to this remarkable story, the Smithsonian blog highlights five lesser-known facts about Dr. King’s life and legacy, from his precocious academic journey to surviving an assassination attempt a decade before his tragic death. These insights remind us of the depth and complexity of King’s contributions to social justice and the enduring impact of his work.
We’re thrilled to share this blog as a way to honor Dr. King’s memory and his vision for equality and justice. Take a moment today to reflect on his legacy and the dream he so eloquently brought to life that summer day in 1963.