By Asia Adkins

"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal." was the famous speech Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave in front of many.

 One of the last living men who stood with Dr. King came to Lincoln on January 12, 2011 to speak to the Center for Social Justice students and staff. Dr. Calvin Morris knew King personally, serving as an associate director of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

 Morris is a civil and human rights activist. He serves as Executive Director of the Community Renewal Society. He was a university professor at Howard University and theological dean at Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta (1976-1998).

 “Social Justice should have the opportunity for people to work together, there should be no difference between people,” said Morris. He believed that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a human commitment to everyone, not just one race.

Meeting King at the age of 25, Morris knew King believed in the dream of the people. “The challenges we face can not be accomplished by one group alone,” said Morris. He wants everyone to come together and work together to make this nation strong.

 Morris was named one of “40 Who Made a Difference” by Chicago’s Business People for the Public Interest in May 2009. Chicago Defender also named him as “Man of Excellence” in January 2010.

 “I believe the greatest gift Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. left was the gift of exclusiveness,” stated Morris. Dr. Calvin Morris , who was also the speaker for the 2011 YMCA Human Dignity Awards Breakfast on January 13.

 “Don’t let other people persuade you. Go beyond to get a better education. Be a blessing to others,” he said.