Dr. King probably would be saddened, but not surprised, that U.S. imperialism is choking the life out of countries struggling for democracy and self-determination. The aggressive domestic militarization now mirrors the international tactics. The disregard of international conventions, such as the Geneva Convention, is the same lawlessness that disregards the need for a judicial warrant for arrests of suspected immigrants. Yes, this country is way past chaos; we may be on the brink of civil war.

And what about the never-pledged war against racism? The country is more racially polarized than ever. Some of us recognize the race card when it’s played, but the MAGA base still believes people of color are taking their country, their jobs, and their neighborhoods. The reality is that white people, white Republicans in particular, still control the government. White people, particularly white men, make up the billionaire class and control the economy. White people control the housing market, and who gets to live in the gated communities and who gets no housing at all. The false narrative that villainizes Black and Brown people prevails.

Every year that Dr. King’s birthday comes around, I think about the hypocrites who let his name roll off their lips, but who work overtime trying to destroy the progress of the Civil Rights Movement. He would’ve expressed deep concern about the attacks on voting rights, whether it be uncounted votes in Wisconsin or the racially gerrymandered maps in TX and MO.

I don’t think Dr. King would be able to contain his outrage at MAGA and its Project 2025 plan, which are driving people into poverty and endangering lives by eliminating affordable healthcare. The sight of Trump deploying the military against unarmed citizens and immigrants would make his stomach turn. Witnessing the MAGA supporters trampling the U.S. Constitution and disregarding the rule of law would be unbearable.

Dr. King’s legacy offers rich inspiration for our country during these troubled times. He was a pacifist who also took a strong stand as an activist. More than just a dreamer, Dr. King transformed his vision into a shared reality. The struggle against poverty, militarism, and racism was the cornerstone of his nonviolent movement. Today, the progress report indicated that our work is far from finished.

I believe that Dr. King would look across the world and see widespread destruction and trauma impacting various aspects of life, from moral decay to environmental degradation. We have significant work ahead of us, and Dr. King would remind us, “Difficult and painful as it is, we must walk on in the days ahead with an audacious faith in the future.” Some days, this is easier said than done.