MLK & Stevie Wonder: Civil Rights Activists

MLK and Stevie Wonder are two iconic figures in cultural history that will permanently be recognized (in many ways) as two of the most influential political activists and humanitarians of their generation. The late Dr. Martin Luther King and Stevie Wonder were both staunch supporters of African American Civil Rights. They both shared similar political views, just had two different ways of expressing their cause.

         Dr. Martin Luther King, born 21 years the senior of Stevie Wonder, grew up in a similar but much harsher period culturally. MLK was one of the first civil rights activists in a time when it was unheard of for African American's to exercise their First Amendment rights. Dr. Martin Luther King achieved and overcame this through vast amounts of education at an early age, maintaining his faith, and drawing inspiration as a Baptist Minister. MLK was an incredible public speaker and expressed the necessity for equal rights, not only for blacks, but for all races and ethnicities. MLK was active in the NAACP and helped spearhead the Montgomery Bus Boycott following the 1955 Rosa Parks refusal to adhere to the Jim Crow Laws and give up her bus seat (segregation in Montgomery was lifted November 13, 1956). In 1963 MLK delivered the prolific "I have a Dream Speech" which will be remembered and replayed throughout history due to its overwhelming message of change and equality. MLK believed in peaceful demonstrations without violence. His approach was affective and drew the masses of all races, colors, and ethnicities.

         Stevie Wonder is a blind musical prodigy and also a civil rights activist, in support of equal rights, especially for African Americans. He also believes in peaceful demonstrations without violence. Stevie Wonder is also a passionate supporter of  MLK's cause. His music reflects that in many ways. Many of his songs and messages directly associate with civil rights, such as "Black Man" from the 1976 Key of Life album, "Living for the City" from his Inversions album, and his 1981 "Happy Birthday" tribute in support of MLK's birthday as a National Holiday. Stevie Wonder's inspirational music and song writing transcends cultural boundaries, a lot like Dr. Martin Luther Kings message of equality, peace, and social justice for all people. Although, MLK's era sparked social reform supporting civil rights and inspired the masses, Stevie Wonders formative years were laden with social injustice. Needless to say, racial equality was in its infancy, and this country was in desperate need, calling upon Civil Rights leadership for years to come.
        
        Even though MLK and Stevie Wonder shared the same political ideology, they differed in their approach. MLK's life was dedicated to civil rights activism. He was a crusader, a talented public speaker, with one vision, a vision of change, hope, and equality for all races. He had fervor, he was charismatic, and he was a wordsmith of his time. Stevie Wonder was a talented blind musical prodigy who used his music as a platform for not only civil rights but for many other causes. His causes range from his support of The Better Vision for Children Foundation, unemployment/career support, Aids/HIV, domestic violence, education, at risk disadvantaged youths, disaster relief, health, environment, the list goes on. Stevie Wonder's message is primarily transmitted through his music. Even though he has been more vocal lately with the Black Lives Matter movement, his real message will always be heard through his song writing.

        In conclusion, MLK and Stevie Wonder are both greats, both visionaries, and both iconic in their own right. They have reached our households as household names (and not because they stood down). They both stood for the same thing, but had unique ways of conveying their message. MLK through his relentless drive in political activism, speeches, work with the NAACP, and social programs. Stevie Wonder with his influential spoken word through his lyrics and song writing which spilled over into movies, books, and programs that inspire people to better to each other, be fair, and thoroughly raise the bar for social, political, and racial progress.