Stevie Wonder shared a heartfelt tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. and a call to action to America’s government and citizens, in a Twitter video.
Wonder shared a video to Twitter honoring Martin Luther King Jr. on his birthday. Wonder begins the video by thanking King Jr. for his influence on his life and music.
“I met you when I was 14 years of age. You were a true hero and you became an inspiration. I’ve been blessed to write songs of love, hope, and motivation – many of them inspired by your life. More than any award that I ever received, I want you to know that I am thankful for how you influenced my place of love. This influence has allowed me to try to push the needle of love and inequality forward. It is painful to know that needle has not moved one iota. For 36 years we have had a national holiday honoring your birthday and principles. Yet you would not believe the lack of progress,” says Wonder.
Stevie Wonder Asks Government To Advocate For ‘Truth’
Wonder continues the video by calling governement officials to witness and share the truth of both our country’s past and present circumstances.
“I am sick that the truth is struggling to be heard and defended. What we say has not been what we do. And this country must reconcile our words and deeds. Until we turn our mouth movements into righteous action, we are doing ort nation, God, and your memory [Martin Luther King Jr.] injustice.”
Wonder recommends an action that he believes could bring healing to the country.
“Those who promote lies and false truth, must be held accountable. It is the only way we can move forward. It is time to formally seek the truth and formerly declare facts. We need a truth commission that forces this country to look at its life,” says Wonder.
He then speaks to President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris directly.
“I’m calling on President Biden and Vice president Harris to launch a formal government investigation to establish the truth of inequality in this country. This truth will validate its history and this commission will recommend reconciliation. Without truth, we cannot have accountability. Without accountability, we cannot have forgiveness. And without forgiveness, we cannot heal,” says Wonder.
Wonder also offers a way for everyone to begin shedding light on the truth.
“We cannot be afraid to confront a lie and a liar,” says Wonder. “On this day, a day in your honor, I pledge to have the courage to say what I see and acknowledge what I hear. In your spirit, I call on all those in the senate to speak truth to what they know…and begin the steps of accountability, forgiveness, and then healing,” says Wonder.
