During this brisk season, the country trembled with the shouts of civil rights activists who fought for the right to realize their dream: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

America now stands in the symbolic shadow of an empathetic leader whose legacy, amongst many other influential people, lives on. His memory echoes in the collective consciousness of our nation and in the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which is reflected upon during Black History month.

King was one voice among the many who paved the way for later generations. These messages resonated with not only the African-American community, but with all minorities whose rights were at one time, unconstitutionally stripped away.

Because of King and other civil rights activists that marched on Washington, organized themselves and forced citizens of the United States to take a moral inventory of themselves, with having the privilege of touting exceptionalism.

His vision can be seen here at The University of Akron in our diverse student population, yet a long and winding road lies ahead of us. This month is not only about rethinking race, but ethnicities, religions, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities can be seated at the table of brotherhood and sisterhood, commemorating this month and many to come, is not enough to live up to his legacy.

Martin Luther King said, “We are not makers of history. We are made of history.”