MLK Letter from Birmingham Jail

April 16, 1963

Created by: Beth Chafin

Griffin/Spalding County Schools 2007

MLK was put into jail for parading without a permit.

While in jail, MLK wrote a letter to 8 fellow clergymen.

The clergymen criticized MLK’s work and ideas.

MLK believed injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

MLK used a nonviolent campaign to promote peace.

The campaign included 4 steps.

1. Collect facts to determine if injustice exists.

2. Negotiation

3. Self-Purification

4. Direct Action

Direct action includes: sit-ins, marches, prayer pilgrimages to City Hall, etc.

Direct action is a way to open the door for negotiation.

Oppressed people cannot remain oppressed forever. Yearning for freedom eventually manifests itself.

The End