The National Mall and Memorial Parks in Washington contain some of the nation’s most cherished symbols: monuments to commemorate our greatest presidents; shrines to honor the courage and sacrifice of veterans; and memorials to celebrate America’s commitment to freedom.

See also: The Life and Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

The newest of them, the Martin Luther King Jr. memorial, majestically captures the civil rights hero's fight for justice everywhere.

In word and deed, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. moved the nation toward a future anchored in dignity and nonviolence. He challenged every American to leave behind racism and intolerance and embrace a new future of hope and reconciliation. Carved today in the memorial's granite, his words still shape lives around the world.

Also of interest: AARP's Black Community page. »