Martin Luther King, Jr. & Immigration

5 ideas to share with your students

Happy Martin Luther KIng, Jr. Day!

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. didn't focus exclusively on immigration in his speeches or writings. Still, his teachings on justice, equality, and human dignity offer powerful lessons for understanding and addressing immigration issues today.

Here are 5 key ideas from MLK that can be applied to immigration:

1. Human Dignity and Universal Rights
   Dr. King emphasized all people's inherent dignity and equality, regardless of their background. This principle aligns with the idea that regardless of their legal status, immigrants deserve to be treated with respect and compassion. In his 1961 speech to the AFL-CIO, MLK declared, "We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly." This reinforces the interconnectedness of humanity, including across borders.

   Art by Brazilian artist: Otávio Roth.

   

2. Solidarity Across Borders
   As a global thinker who believed in solidarity with oppressed peoples everywhere, Dr.King emphasized solidarity. In his opposition to the Vietnam War, he linked struggles for justice in the U.S. to those around the world. This perspective encourages empathy for immigrants and refugees fleeing poverty, violence, and persecution.

   

3. Opposition to Racism and Xenophobia
   Dr. King strongly condemned systems of discrimination, which resonates with the fight against xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiment. His advocacy for dismantling structural racism can guide efforts to ensure fair treatment and opportunities for immigrants.

   Credit: Photo by Tim Mossholder

   

4. Justice as Love in Action
   According to Dr. King, justice is an expression of love and compassion. Policies affecting immigrants—such as access to asylum, fair labor conditions, and family reunification—should be guided by moral principles rather than fear or exclusion. King’s work was centered on uplifting marginalized communities, which can inspire advocacy for immigrants who often face vulnerability, exploitation, and systemic barriers.

   

5. Nonviolent Advocacy for Change
   Dr. King demonstrated methods of peaceful protest and dialogue are a model for addressing contentious immigration debates. His vision of a “beloved community” reminds us that unity and inclusion should be the ultimate goals.

   

   Link to artist Charlene Potts here!

Let’s use Dr. King's ideas in our lessons this upcoming week and throughout the year.

What might you do?