What Discrimination Does Luther King Find Between the White And the Black in “I Have a Dream”?

Answer

What discrimination does Luther King find between the white and the black in “I Have a Dream”?

In Martin Luther King Jr.’s (1929-1968) “I Have a Dream” (1963) speech, he portrays the discrimination faced by Black Americans. He draws attention to several key aspects of inequality prevalent in society:

Segregation and Systemic Injustice: King expresses the systemic segregation and injustice entrenched in society, where African Americans face discrimination in various aspects of life. He states, 

One hundred years later, the Negro still is not free… sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination.

This points to the structural barriers preventing Black individuals from enjoying the same freedoms and opportunities as their white counterparts. They are exiled to a position of inequality and marginalized in their own country.

Economic Disparity and Poverty: King emphasizes the economic distinction between whites and Blacks. He speaks of African Americans living on a “lonely island of poverty” amidst a sea of material prosperity. This highlights the economic inequality where Black communities often face limited access to resources, employment opportunities, and adequate living conditions compared to the predominantly white population.

Limited Civil Rights and Basic Freedoms: King highlights denying African Americans basic civil rights and freedoms. He refers to the “bad check” America has given Black people, indicating the broken promise of guaranteed unalienable rights. This manifests in the denial of voting rights, police brutality, restricted mobility, and the dehumanizing experience of being subjected to “whites-only” establishments, all of which contribute to their second-class citizenship.

Educational and Social Injustice: King also addresses educational and social injustices African American children and communities face. He expresses dissatisfaction:

We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their selfhood and robbed of their dignity. 

This points to the inadequate educational opportunities, societal prejudices, and discriminatory practices that hinder the development and progress of Black youth.

Through these key points, King vividly illustrates the multifaceted discrimination faced by Black Americans, encompassing social, economic, legal, and cultural dimensions. His speech passionately calls for eradicating these injustices and realizing a society where equality and justice prevail for all.