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Drum Major Institute

Drum Major Institute carries on the work and vision of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by fostering a culture of radical nonviolence and active participation in our democracy. 

Founded by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Harry Wachtel, lawyer and counselor to Dr. King during the civil rights movement, the Drum Major Institute was revitalized by their sons, Martin Luther King III and William B. Wachtel. Today, DMI is helmed by Martin Luther King III, Arndrea Waters King, and their daughter Yolanda Renee King. The organization leads through collaboration by convening leaders and organizations to identify common-sense solutions to our most pressing social problems. The Drum Major Institute strives to inspire people to embrace their role in the King legacy, create the beloved community and take action to promote peace, justice and equity for all. 

 

  • Latest from the blog

    2020 Human Rights Day Statement

    Martin Luther King III 2020 has been a year of tremendous challenges for human rights promotion and protection. Authoritarian leaders throughout the international community ignored desperate pleas for democratic governance and respect for human rights. Instead, many governments swiftly moved to close civic space by systematically undermining the activities of non-governmental organizations and suppressing their courageous efforts to call attention to civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights violations. Many of these organizations were labeled “terrorists,” that were spreading “fake news.” As a result, many had their bank accounts frozen, their assets seized and they witnessed their leaders being arrested, and tortured, or even killed.
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    Anne Hathaway and Yolanda Renee King: Why Should We Vote?

    Martin Luther King, Jr.'s granddaughter, 12-year-old Yolanda Renee King, sits down with actress, Anne Hathaway, to talk about the importance of voting, why your vote matters, and what's at stake in the 2020 election. Watch here and learn why we should all keep kids in mind when we vote this year!
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