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"Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope." This powerful quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Junior’s 1963 "I Have A Dream" speech is as relevant today as it was then. The current global landscape is plagued with turmoil, conflict, and divisive challenges – but there is still positivity and hope on the horizon. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is as perfect of a time as any to not only commemorate the life and work of the American civil rights leader but to re-dedicate ourselves to creating an equitable world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive free from fear and discrimination.

The need for strong leadership and advocacy for the oppressed has never been more critical for paving a path to true peace. I remember watching a documentary that featured Dr. King when I was in elementary school. I was fascinated by his eloquent way of speaking and connecting with people, and he inspired me to push my boundaries continuously. Achieving progress in the push for diversity and inclusion requires advancements in education and understanding. This means we have to talk to people we never have, research topics we’ve never known, and ultimately allow ourselves to be uncomfortable to gain greater knowledge.

Dr. King’s legacy is a shining example of what it looks like to stand up for what is right, even if you’re standing alone. He dedicated his life to fighting against injustices across communities, and to honor him properly, we must do the same. The Black Resource Group (BRG) and marketing team at Clayco are celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day with virtual and in-person events to provide space for reflection, volunteer opportunities, community festivities, and more. I encourage everyone to participate in any of these listed events if possible!

At Clayco, we are not interested in debating about the value of DEI. Since founding Clayco, I have been ambitious in finding every competitive advantage in order to bring our clients the best solutions. Diversity in people, ideas, backgrounds, and experiences is a secret weapon to providing unique customer service.

Never be silent about things that matter. If we are united, there is nothing that we, as the human race, cannot accomplish. Social justice is always in style, and using our voices and actions to promote equality is one of the most meaningful things we can do.