WASHINGTON DC, United States — The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial commemorates the civil rights leader's enduring legacy. Situated along the National Mall's Tidal Basin, the monument commemorates Dr. King's contributions to the American civil rights movement and his pursuit of justice through nonviolent means.
Image details
Contributor:
David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
2RN71M9File size:
130 MB (3.8 MB Compressed download)Releases:
Model - no | Property - noDo I need a release?Dimensions:
5504 x 8256 px | 46.6 x 69.9 cm | 18.3 x 27.5 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
2 April 2021Location:
Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United StatesMore information:
Photograph by David Coleman. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington DC stands as a powerful tribute to one of America's most influential civil rights leaders. Opened to the public in 2011, the memorial is located on a four-acre site along the Tidal Basin, creating a visual line of leadership between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. The centerpiece of the memorial is a 30-foot-tall granite statue of Dr. King, emerging from the "Stone of Hope, " which appears to have been pushed forward from a "Mountain of Despair" behind it. This design, inspired by a line from King's famous "I Have a Dream" speech, was created by Chinese sculptor Lei Yixin. The statue depicts King with a stern, thoughtful expression, arms folded and clutching papers, symbolizing his role as a visionary leader and agent of change. Surrounding the statue is a crescent-shaped inscription wall, featuring 14 quotations from King's speeches, sermons, and writings. These carefully selected excerpts reflect the core themes of King's message: justice, democracy, hope, and love. The memorial's design encourages visitors to engage with King's ideas and legacy, providing spaces for reflection and contemplation. As the first memorial on the National Mall dedicated to an African American and a non-president, it holds significant cultural and historical importance. The site serves not only as a tribute to King's personal achievements but also as a broader symbol of the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in America. Throughout the year, but especially on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, the memorial attracts visitors from around the world, offering a space for education, inspiration, and continued dialogue about civil rights and social progress.