The 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington is an important occasion for all those fighting for freedom. Ethiopian-Americans have been among the beneficiaries of the struggles waged by Dr. King and the civil rights movement.
The ebony kinship that binds Ethiopian-Americans and African-Americans have deep roots. His Imperial Majesty Haile Sellassie I was among the first African leaders to lay a wreath on Dr. King’s grave.
“I found it quite necessary to lay a wreath on Dr. King’s grave so that we may remember his deeds and contributions to history, and his triumphs – and to honor his father and his wife.” the Emperor said.
Emperor Haile Sellassie laying wreath at Dr. King’s grave. July 11, 1969. AP Photo courtesy of private collector in New York.
News coverage of the Emperor honoring Dr. King. July 11, 1969.