Description of the Monument
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial reflects the country’s history. This monument was erected in memory of the great figure Martin Luther King, who made a significant contribution to the development of the civil rights movement and was a “tireless advocate for racial equality, working class, and the oppressed around the world” (“Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial,” n.d., para. 1). It was opened in 2011 in Washington, DC and depicts Martin Luther King.
Original Intentions and Evolving Interpretations
Of particular importance should be paid to the intentions pursued by the creators of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. It is stated that “the space is a place to contemplate Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy: a non-violent philosophy striving for freedom, justice, and equality” (“Building the memorial,” n.d., p. 3). With increased conversation regarding race and social justice, the interpretation of intentions by the memorial’s author has changed. Hence, it can be stated that in modern society, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial represents the civil rights movement and the struggle for equality and racial discrimination in the country.
Comparative Reflection on Monument Interpretations
I have chosen to explore the interpretation of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial by Allison Keyes. The author emphasizes that one of the main intentions of this monument is to draw attention to the fight for civil rights. In other words, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial commemorates the efforts made by the historical and social figure but also focuses on the importance of maintaining and further protecting the civil rights of individuals in the country.
Moreover, Allison Keyes notes that this memorial should become a reminder and motivator for young people to take action, especially in today’s cruel world. What I learned coincides with my interpretation of the monument. Henceforth, like the author, I believe that the primary intention of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is the memory of the accomplishments of a great figure and the importance of continuing these efforts.
References
Building the memorial. (n.d.). National Park service. Web.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. (n.d.). National Park service. Web.