A schoolboy from Bolton travelled across the pond to America to mark the anniversary of Martin Luther King’s I have a dream speech.
Milan Paul Kumar, 11, made the trip to Atlanta in the US state of Georgia the mark the 60th anniversary of the iconic moment of Civil Rights oratory on August 28.
He has done so because he believes the dream Dr King spoke of that day in 1963 about taking on discrimination and poverty continues to resonate to this day.
Milan said: “This speech still remains as relevant today as it was when it was delivered six decades ago.
“There is still a lot of work to be done in 2023 in our communities to keep the dream alive.”
He added: “Together we can take action and make a difference in our communities."
Milan has already shown how people can make a difference thanks to his long standing community and charity work which have seen him honoured with a Diana Award and recognised as a #iwill Ambassador.
Inspired by Martin Luther King’s example, Milan has now written his own speech to mark the anniversary:
“Sixty years since Martin Luther King expressed his theme,
“His legacy lives on in us – he’s given us a Dream.
“I dream that children everywhere will learn to read and write.
“I dream of opportunities for all to shine their light.
“I dream that differences won’t stop us all from fitting in,
“No matter our abilities or colour of our skin.
“I dream that every family will have a place to live.
“I dream we’ll each have so much food there’s always some to give.
“This dream of mine – and his – and yours! – it isn’t far away.
“No, this is something imminent: I have a dream today.
“Much like Martin Luther King, there’s something else I know:
“A dream is just a dream until we’re ready, set, and…. GO!
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“Each of us is powerful; we each can play a role.
“We each can share our talents and the beauty of our soul.
“The knowledge that we’re almost there can help us all to cope.
“The darkness soon will disappear, and then this is our hope:
“Sixty years since King began his speech there comes a sequel.
“It’s time we know that all young people are created equal.
“We all can change the world with the things we do and say.
“King’s legacy lives on and on… I have a Dream today.”
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