Every year during black history month, we hear the repeated stories of historical black leaders who have contributed to society. Less mentioned, are the people who supported them in the background of their altruistic pursuits. A few weeks ago, I was able to meet with a man who played a vital role in supporting two of the most well-known figures in Black American history.
Fred David Gray is a civil rights attorney and activist from Montgomery, Alabama with an extensive line of pivotal achievements. Some of his most prolific work includes representing Rosa Parks after her infamous arrest, and defending Martin Luther King Jr. against legal allegations. During a recent visit to Houston, Tx, Fred Gray made time to speak with guests at the Lanier Theological Library about his past work, and views of our current social climate.
This hour-long conversation was more than a recalling old stories but more so a declaration of what he believes we should be doing to continue the positive work we praise him for. He expressed sadness at the lack of unity in our neighborhoods, stating we could have accomplished so much more during his seven decades of work if we could simply learn to unify; educate ourselves on the law, share the knowledge, and be diligent enough to pursue justice when necessary. He expressed the importance of museums, urging people to protect the dignity of our past by collecting and share important stories and information for future generations. Most importantly, Mr. Gray spoke on living with intention. Originally, Mr. Gray enrolled into college with the intention of being a teacher. However, on his daily commute to class on public transportation he witnesses countless acts of injustice and violence that he couldn’t overlook. Many people who were mistreated didn’t know their rights or the legal steps needed to hold their assailants lawfully accountable. Those terrible experiences are what lead him to change his courses and instead study law. Mr. Gray made it clear that we are all capable of great achievements by simply tapping into the problems life leads us to solve; much how the issues he faced on the bus rides to school lead him into a fulfilling career with a lifetime of courageous acts that have completed shifted our judicial system.
Hearing Mr. Gray speak made this Black History Month more special than ever. He carried a message of inclusivity and community work with a sense of care and urgency that inspired everyone listening. His use of strategic planning and action are simple concepts that we all can use to spark any change we want to see in the world around us. There is power in unity, starting with Self.
