Yolanda King

Yolanda King: Carrying on the Dream

By Sydni Norfleet and Lauren Jordan

Yolanda King is the eldest child of civil rights leaders Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. She is a passionate advocate for social justice and equality, following in the footsteps of her legendary parents.

Early Life and Family

Yolanda was born on May 7, 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama. She has two younger brothers, Martin Luther King III and Dexter Scott King. Her childhood was spent amidst the turmoil of the Civil Rights Movement, witnessing her parents' tireless efforts to dismantle racial segregation and discrimination.

Education and Career

Yolanda attended Spelman College, a historically Black women's college in Atlanta, Georgia. She later earned a law degree from Emory University School of Law. She has worked as an attorney and has been involved in various social justice initiatives.

Activism and Legacy

Yolanda is a vocal advocate for gun control, inspired by the tragic death of her cousin, Yolanda Denise King, who was killed in a drive-by shooting in 1999. She has also spoken out against racial injustice and inequality.

Yolanda's work reflects the values she learned from her parents. She believes in the power of nonviolent protest and the importance of social change. She continues to inspire young people to get involved in the fight for justice and equality.

Notable Accomplishments

Yolanda has received numerous awards for her activism, including the Martin Luther King, Jr., Trumpet Award and the Coretta Scott King Women of Color Pioneer Award. She is the author of the children's book, "We Dream A World," which was inspired by her grandfather's dream of a better future.

Yolanda King's Quotes

Some of Yolanda's most memorable quotes include:

  • "Love is the key."

  • "When the heart is right, the mind and body will follow."

  • "I'm very pleased to join Scholastic for my book publishing debut. On my grandfather's 95th birthday, I'm excited to share this love letter in his honor. This book lets every child rediscover my grandparents' dream."1

 1. mediaroom.scholastic.com 

Yolanda King's Impact

Yolanda King is a powerful voice for social justice and equality. She is a role model for young people who want to make a difference in the world. Her work is a continuation of the legacy of her parents, and she is an inspiration to all who strive for a more just and equitable society.

In Conclusion

Yolanda King is a remarkable woman who has dedicated her life to carrying on the work of her parents. She is a powerful advocate for social justice and equality, and she is an inspiration to all who seek to make a difference in th

Previous
Previous

Nina Simone

Next
Next

Ida B. Wells