P R E S I DE NT ’ S COR NE R
SCLC: From the STREETS to the SUITES… By Dr. Charles Steele Jr., SCLC National President & CEO
The Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) has been focused on the evolution of the civil rights movement since 1957. Civil rights is a complexed movement in that it is everchanging in its approach to reaching the masses and helping people all over the world. SCLC has always understood that we can’t fix the world without addressing the issues in America. Although we attempt to do as much as we can, we are only as strong as our foundation. Therefore, SCLC is continuing to do the maintenance necessary to ensure that we are strong and fit for future generations. Contrary to what many might think, organizations like SCLC are imperative to our freedom today, tomorrow and forever. We want to be a glimmer of hope for all God’s children all over the world and it is imperative that we understand the foundation from which we build must remain strong. SCLC has to stay in the streets! It is the foot soldiers of SCLC that keep us visible in the streets all across this country. We must raise up a new generation of foot soldiers. These are the courageous people who are ensuring that we are getting people registered to vote, being a source of information for their community, training the community on the Kingian Non-violent Reconciliation and helping to ensure the SCLC is a resource and help to all around the country. This is our foundation. Now, how do we go from the street to the suites? I’m glad you asked. We have to take that same enthusiasm to ensure equality and justice for all in the workplace as well. The “From the Streets to the Suites” initiative targets corporations. This initiative will look to help those who have been treated unfairly at their place of employment. We will focus on organizations that have been accused of racism and discrimination, especially companies that have been lauded as leaders in diversity, equity and inclusion. It is written down in history the accomplishments of SCLC and the civil rights movement in the 1960’s. Lead by our co-founder Dr, Martin Luther King, Jr., SCLC was able to help bring
SCLC National Magazine/ Fall 2021 Issue
Fall 2021.indd 6
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