As we celebrate the life and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, we asked a few of our staff and participant colleagues to share some reflections. What emerged are powerful statements touching on the unfinished work of racial and social justice, the importance of CEO’s mission and enduring legacy of Dr. King’s example.

"I remember seeing Dr. King’s mural at the Compton courthouse after attending a probation meeting to tell folks about CEO. I remember feeling how important that conversation was because most of our colleagues were coming from South Los Angeles. I remember being in a room with mostly Black people, building relationships that would have a lasting impact. Planting a seed in the community to make a difference. To literally change lives. I am reminded of the countless Black and Brown kids that came in with their parents to our office, seeing their mother or father engaged in conversation with us. I carry that memory as a symbol for anything I do here at this organization: it must be rooted in anti-racism. My hopes for social and economic justice include better serving our Black colleagues at CEO. It is important for me as a Black staff member to see that happen. When I think of Dr. King’s teachings, I am reminded that it takes courage to stand up to injustice. Injustice is rooted in many of our systems and it is our responsibility to interrogate, disrupt, and dismantle it. Not just one day out of the year, or even a month, but as an everyday practice. This work is so much more than my job description. We have an opportunity to fight for freedom."