Page 24 - MLK Day Booklet 2025_Neat
P. 24
MLK TIMELINE
February 1, 1968 —In Memphis, TN two sanitation
workers, Echol Cole and Robert Walker are crushed in
the rear of a malfunctioning garbage truck.
February 12, 1968 —Memphis sanitation and public
works employees go on a strike until they receive
decent living wages and safe working conditions.
They also demand recognition of their humanity and
dignity by wearing “I Am a Man” signs.
March 28, 1968 —Dr. King leads a march supporting
the sanitation workers in downtown Memphis.
Violence erupts during the march and Dr. King is
rushed from the scene. He vows to return to Memphis
to lead a peaceful march.
April 3, 1968 — Dr. King returns to Memphis.
Despite feeling ill, he attends a rally at Mason Temple
where he delivers his final sermon, “I’ve Been to the
Mountaintop.”
April 4, 1968—Dr. King is mortally wounded on the bal-
cony of room 306 at the Lorraine Motel at 6:01pm and
is pronounced dead at 7:05 pm at the St. Joseph’s
Hospital. Riots erupt throughout the country as news
of his death spread.
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