
I am deeply honored to receive the 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Service Award alongside such esteemed leaders.
A Heartfelt Thank You
I extend my sincere gratitude to the Board of the Martin Luther King Jr. Association of Asheville and Buncombe County for recognizing my work and granting me the opportunity to serve during the celebration week year after year. Your unwavering commitment to Dr. King’s legacy continues to inspire and guide us all.
Beyond my professional journey, I am profoundly grateful to my children, whose love and encouragement inspire me daily. To my husband, Rafrica—the love of my life and greatest supporter—I am blessed to share this journey with you. And to my community, both online and offline, your steadfast support fuels my drive to continue striving for progress and purpose.
Reflection on the Journey
The past few years have presented profound challenges, but in those moments of uncertainty, the words of Dr. King and the wisdom of my mentors provided strength and guidance. I have faced my imperfections, endured injustice firsthand, and gained a deeper understanding of justice, equality, and service. Through it all, I have remained committed to taking accountability, growing from my mistakes, and working each day to effect positive change.
Moving Forward with Purpose
As we look to the future, we must confront a fundamental question: How can we meet the needs of those who rely on us most, despite systems designed to keep us disconnected?
Whether I see you on Black Wall Street, at Deep Time, or in one of my workshops, I recognize you as part of the “Beloved Community” Dr. King envisioned—a society rooted in justice, equal opportunity, and love for all. Together, we have the power to dismantle unjust systems and foster reconciliation. Dr. King’s words from his Letter from Birmingham Jail remain a guiding force:
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
My Commitment to Action
Receiving this Martin Luther King Jr. Award humbles me and serves as a reminder to remain a lifelong student of humanity. My mistakes and misfortunes do not define me; instead, I choose to actively seek opportunities to engage in what Congressman John Lewis called “good trouble.”
In accepting this honor, I commit to:
1. Engaging in Nonviolent Direct Action
Peacefully challenging unjust laws and practices, remembering that constructive tension compels meaningful change.
2. Fostering Inclusive Dialogue
Creating spaces for open and honest conversations that bridge divides and strengthen our collective capacity to heal and grow.
3. Advocating for Policy Change
Collaborating to influence legislation that promotes social justice, focusing on voting rights, economic equity, and access to quality education and healthcare.
I encourage each of you to reflect on how you can contribute to Dr. King’s vision in your own unique way—through your work, community involvement, or daily acts of kindness and justice.
Together, let us continue building the “Beloved Community” where everyone can thrive. Let us honor Dr. King’s legacy not just in words, but in action, fostering hope, equity, and unity in all that we do.
