The Need for Courageous, Intelligent, and Dedicated Leadership — Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

In the light of the cesspool that was a “rally” in Madison Square Gardens in New York City I offer this excerpt from a speech which Dr. King delivered in New York City. Dr. King’s call for leaders to rise above and actually be leaders is much needed. I am so sick of the incessant lies and am deeply angered by the slanderous comments about the beautiful island of Puerto Rico which is a part of the United States. I have served along side of Puerto Rico’s finest in the United States military and have nothing but respect for my siblings in arms. I have also been honored to work with friends and co-laborers in ministry from Puerto Rico. The hospitality and welcome shown to us when we were in Puerto Rico for a wedding was absolutely stellar. It is not a floating island of refuse!

Dr. King’s message and the sort of leadership he is talking about is sorely needed in this nation and in the world.

May I stress the need for courageous, intelligent, and dedicated leadership… [We need] Leaders who somehow understand the issues. Leaders of sound integrity. Leaders not in love with publicity, but in love with justice. Leaders not in love with money, but in love with humanity. Leaders who can subject their particular egos to the greatness of the cause. God give us leaders. [applause] A time like this demands great souls with pure hearts and ready hands. Leaders whom the lust of office does not kill. Leaders whom the spoils of life cannot buy. Leaders who possess opinions and a will. Leaders who will not lie. Leaders who can stand before the demagogue and damn his treacherous flatteries without winking. — Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Desegregation and the Future,” Address Delivered at the Annual Luncheon of the National Committee for Rural Schools)