Many individuals are upset about the coincidence of Donald Trump’s inauguration falling on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, but I perceive it as an opportunity. Firstly, it brings additional attention to the day’s significance. Furthermore, it prompts us to ponder what Dr. King might have thought or done if he were navigating the Trump era.
The concept of “what if” scenarios is quite popular in literature these days, and Trump’s inauguration on this symbolic day invites us to reflect on alternate histories—imagining what the world might be like if King had lived longer. On the flip side, we’re left to consider how America and the world have evolved in his absence.
Martin Luther King Jr. was a rare leader, gifted with extraordinary eloquence and fervor. His speeches could invigorate everyone from everyday workers to presidents and global leaders. King had a visionary understanding of the intricate racial, social, and economic challenges, as well as their potential solutions and repercussions.
He dedicated his life to building a grassroots movement championing civil rights and social justice, becoming its steadfast leader. King’s charismatic influence inspired people to take action on pivotal issues.
Now, consider how this might have unfolded in today’s world with Trump in power. King stood firmly against violence. The prevalence of mass shootings and gun violence in American cities would likely have grieved him deeply. He probably would have clashed with the National Rifle Association and Trump, advocating fervently for comprehensive gun control measures in Congress.
On the global stage, King would have surely denounced Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. It’s also likely that he would have spoken against both Hamas’ abductions and killings of Israelis and Israel’s attacks on Palestinian civilians. For King, these conflicts would be seen as ineffective and oppressive, squandering resources better allocated to helping the poor and marginalized. In this regard, he might have found a sliver of common ground with Trump, who frequently boasts about keeping America out of unnecessary wars.
Undoubtedly, King would have stood against the recent wave of voter suppression laws and the GOP’s attempts to weaken the political power of Black and minority communities, including attacks on the Voting Rights Act. This would surely have led to clashes with Trump. However, Trump might counter by highlighting the rise in support he received from Black and Hispanic voters in the recent election.
King would certainly have worked hard to counteract the country’s shift to the right under Republican leadership, attracting criticism from Trump and his MAGA supporters. Nonetheless, even with King’s influence, it might have been difficult to halt powerful interests set on stopping or reversing progress in civil rights, labor rights, and economic equity.
The resurgence of open racism during Trump’s presidency would unquestionably disgust King, who famously longed for a society where people are judged by their character rather than skin color.
King would also have needed to devise new strategies to fight the persistent problems of poverty and wealth inequality, issues that have widened since his time. Even with his brilliant organizational acumen, these challenges might have proved formidable.
Had King lived longer, his unwavering dedication to human rights and economic justice would likely have remained strong. He would have been present wherever advocacy, protests, or lobbying efforts took place, constantly contributing his voice and energy. The Trump era would certainly have provided King with numerous causes to champion.
Earl Ofari Hutchinson, in his latest book “Day 1 The Trump Reign,” delves into these topics. You can explore more of his insights at thehutchinsonreport.net.
