Watch CBS News

50 Years Later: Dr. King's Dream Is Alive And Well In Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON (WJZ) -- Fifty years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech.  It's one of the most pivotal in this nation's history.

Linh Bui spoke with those along the parade route in Washington, D.C.

The rain could not keep visitors away. Everyone was excited and honored to be a part of history.

Energized and united. Thousands march to the Lincoln Memorial 50 years after the first march on Washington.

"It's just so important for me to be here and to know of the changes just in my lifetime," said Pam Bowen.

They're here to honor the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and several people came from Baltimore.

"We've come so far. If you think and you look at some of the film and pictures and things like that from 50 years ago, and just seeing all the multi-diversity that's here, it's just fantastic," said Kevin Gamble.

"I think I should be here. That's all. He did a whole lot for us. And another thing: his dream did come true," Elaine Caters said.

Many were also excited to hear from our first African-American president.

"I really just want to see the president speak. I think he's going to have some really insightful comments," said Ben Pitler.

The event brought out people from around the country--even the world. One family was from Washington state. Another person hailed from Germany.

It's an important day.

"I figured I'd just come to this march here to be a part of history," said Melvin Vines.

And an emotional day. Freddie Brown was at the original march 50 years ago. He was Dr. King's driver.

"He was a Baptist minister to start with. But then he got into civil rights. Then he got into work. And I think he'd be happy to see this," Brown said.

Many say we must do more to fulfill Dr. King's dream.

"There's still education to worry about. The violence in the inner-cities," Bowen said.

"We're striving to get there, but it's still going to take some time," said Vines.

But they're celebrating how far we've come.

Overall, people say the atmosphere was very positive and that we can fulfill Dr. King's dream if we work hard enough.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.