On Friday, April 4, the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel hosted its annual April 4th Commemoration, marking the 57th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. With this year’s theme, “How Long, Not Long,” drawn from Dr. King’s iconic 1965 Montgomery speech, the event underscored the continued urgency of collective action in protecting democracy and achieving justice.
More than a moment of remembrance, the gathering served as a rallying cry for social and economic equity—reminding the public that Dr. King’s fight for justice lives on.
A message that still resonates
“We’re emphasizing the relevance of Dr. King’s ‘How Long, Not Long’ speech to today’s prevailing struggle,” said Dr. Russ Wigginton, president of the National Civil Rights Museum. “At a time when voting rights, economic empowerment, and the very fabric of democracy are under threat, we must use our voices and our collective power to drive meaningful change.”
The museum’s commemoration, titled “Remembering MLK: The Man. The Movement. The Moment.”, took place in the museum’s courtyard and was livestreamed on the museum’s website, YouTube, and Facebook. A contingency plan was in place to move the program indoors in case of inclement weather.
A powerful program of reflection and performance
The evening featured a series of inspiring performances and tributes, including:
- Keynote address from Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley, president and CEO of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW). A prominent public health and inclusion leader, Rev. Arline-Bradley has held key roles in advocacy and government—including within the Obama Administration—and was the youngest keynote speaker at the King Center’s 2024 Beloved Community Commemorative Service.
- Special performances by the world-renowned Tennessee Mass Choir, known for their dynamic vocals and collaborations with legends like Al Green and Martina McBride.
- Dramatic interpretation of Dr. King’s speech “How Long, Not Long” by Hattilloo Theatre, bringing his words to life with theatrical power.
- Vocal tribute by acclaimed vocalist Deborah Manning Thomas, offering a soul-stirring musical homage to Dr. King.
Youth voices and a moment of silence
The program also featured remarks from student winners of the Keeper of the Dream Award, reflecting on Dr. King’s influence on their generation. Members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Dr. King’s fraternity, presented a special tribute.
At 6:01 p.m. CT—the exact time Dr. King was assassinated in 1968—the museum held a solemn moment of silence as a wreath was placed on the Lorraine Motel balcony in his memory.
Community participation and livestream access
This free event was open to the public, with a livestream option for those unable to attend in person. The museum encouraged viewers to register online for updates and event access.
About the National Civil Rights Museum
The National Civil Rights Museum, located at the historic Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, offers a comprehensive overview of the American civil rights movement from slavery to the present day. Since its opening in 1991, the museum has welcomed millions of visitors, including more than 90,000 students annually.
A Smithsonian Affiliate and nationally recognized institution, the museum is dedicated to telling the story of the ongoing struggle for civil and human rights—and serves as a powerful catalyst for positive social change.