Watkins Elem Principal Elena Bell wraps up "I Have A Dream" reading by 5th graders @CHCSPTA #WTOP #MLK pic.twitter.com/xslRqhqAYj
— Kristi King (@kingWTOP) January 15, 2016
Sign wavers Taylor Young & Nina Allen 2nd graders at Watkins enjoy the big finish at "I Have A Dream" reading #WTOP pic.twitter.com/I91ElMDUzr
— Kristi King (@kingWTOP) January 15, 2016
About to start! "Have a Dream Speech” by Watkins Elementary students #WTOP #MLK #LincolnMemorial pic.twitter.com/nDPNUY5R9C
— Kristi King (@kingWTOP) January 15, 2016
WASHINGTON — Dozens of children gathered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial Friday to deliver the “I Have A Dream Speech” of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
“This is a wonderful opportunity the Park Service gives us every year,” says teacher Amy Wertheimer, who organizes the effort with students from Watkins Elementary in Southeast. “We are the only school in the entire country that’s been asked to do this.”
In addition to remembering and reciting their individual lines the children learn what Dr. King was trying to accomplish. “In 2015-16 language – what he actually meant,” Wertheimer explains.
The recitation always happens on the Friday before the Martin Luther King Jr. federal holiday. This year, that happens to correspond with the King’s actual birthday. “Which makes it even more exciting,” Wertheimer said with a grin.
Editor’s note: The full speech has been edited to remove pauses between children walking to the podium.
