To honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Diversity & Inclusion Initiatives of Furman University’s Student Life (DIISL) organization hosted a MLK community breakfast on Friday, January 13. The keynote speaker was Dr. Mary Frances Berry, author, educator, and historian. The James B. Duke Library has several of her books:
- Five dollars and a pork chop sandwich: vote buying and the corruption of democracy (2016)
- Power in words: the stories behind Barack Obama’s speeches, from the state house to the White House (2010)
- And justice for all: the United States Commission on Civil Rights and the continuing struggle for freedom in America (2009)
- My face is black is true: Callie House and the struggle for ex-slave reparations (2005)
- The pig farmer’s daughter and other tales of American justice: episodes of racism and sexism in the courts from 1865 to the present (1999)
- Black resistance, white law: a history of constitutional racism in America (1994)
For over four decades, Dr. Berry has been one of the most recognized and respected voices in our nation’s civil rights, gender equality and social justice movements. Serving as Chairperson of the US Civil Rights Commission, Berry led the charge for equal rights and liberties for all Americans over the course of four Presidential administrations. A trailblazer for women and African Americans alike, she also became the first woman of any race to head a major research university, serving at the University of Colorado at Boulder.
Despite her years of success, Berry is never one to rest on her laurels. She continues to speak boldly for those who can’t speak for themselves. Her vision of social freedom and equality alongside her wisdom and candor, assure her place in the future agenda of America. With fierce determination, Berry never backs down. She educates, transforms, and inspires us all. Her clarion call challenges everyone to stand up, stand tall and to never give up the fight.