Living Dr. King’s Legacy Requires More Than Remembering
This week, I had the honor of attending the 56th Annual Remembrance Dinner of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. hosted by the Illinois Commission on Diversity and Human Relations. It was a powerful reminder—not just of Dr. King’s words, but of the responsibility we all share to live them.
One moment from the evening has stayed with me. A speaker reflected on the fact that Martin Luther King Jr. lived only 39 years. Just 39. And yet, in that short lifetime, he reshaped our nation’s conscience and helped change the course of history.
That reflection became even more powerful with the presence of two attendees who had served as Dr. King’s advisors and marched alongside him. Their presence was a living reminder that the Civil Rights Movement is not ancient history—it happened within our lifetime. These are not distant stories. They are lived experiences, carried by people who are still with us today.
That reality makes Dr. King’s legacy not something we simply remember, but something we are responsible for continuing.
Dr. King didn’t just speak eloquently about justice, equity, and dignity—he lived those values. Honoring his legacy today means doing more than quoting him once a year. It means doing the hard work of standing up for our neighbors, especially those in marginalized communities who continue to face systemic barriers, discrimination, and inequity.
As a social worker, nonprofit CEO, Village Trustee, and candidate for State Senate, I believe leadership is about action—not performative statements, but sustained, values-driven work. It’s about making our communities safer, more affordable, and more compassionate. It’s about speaking up when it’s uncomfortable. And it’s about choosing courage over convenience.
Dr. King reminded us that “the time is always right to do what is right.”
My commitment is to live that truth—not just this week, but every day—by fighting for policies rooted in dignity, fairness, and opportunity, and by showing up for the people of our district with integrity and resolve.
Community & Leadership in Action
One of the most meaningful parts of the evening was the opportunity to spend time with leaders—both current and future—who are committed to carrying this work forward together.
Pictured here with Jenny Levin, a candidate for the Illinois House in the 51st District, and Nicolle Grasse, whose leadership continues to make a difference for families across our state.
I was also grateful for time with Ann Gillespie, former State Senator of the 27th District and now Illinois Director of Insurance. Her continued service is a reminder that leadership doesn’t end with one role—it evolves in service of the greater good.
Another highlight was connecting with Tina Garrett from the D62 Board of Education and Kevin Morrison, Cook County Commissioner and congressional candidate. Conversations like these reinforce how interconnected our work is—from education to local government to federal leadership.
I also enjoyed meeting fellow candidate Daniel Biss, thanks to Mary Beth Canty for the invitation and for creating space for connection and collaboration.
Moments like these matter. Building a more just, equitable future doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens when leaders listen, learn from one another, and work together across communities and offices.
Thank you for being part of this movement. Together, we don’t just remember the legacy—we carry it forward.
Let’s keep going—because together, we’re stronger.
With gratitude,
Carina Santa Maria
Candidate for Illinois State Senate, District 27