Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop facts for kids

Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop: The Sanitation Strike of 1968 is a children's picture book from 2018. It tells an important story using both poetry and regular writing. Alice Faye Duncan wrote the book, and R. Gregory Christie created the pictures. It was published by Calkins Creek.

What is "Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop" About?

This book shares the true story of the Memphis sanitation strike of 1968. It helps young readers understand a key moment in the Civil Rights Movement. The author, Alice Faye Duncan, tells this history from a child's point of view.

Why Did the Sanitation Strike Begin?

In February 1968, two African American sanitation workers in Memphis, Tennessee, died. Their deaths were caused by unsafe garbage truck equipment. This tragic event made other sanitation workers very upset. They decided to form a labor union to fight for their rights. They wanted better pay and safer working conditions.

The Fight for Workers' Rights

The city's mayor, Mayor Loeb, refused to recognize the workers' union. This union was called the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 1733. Because the city would not listen, about 1,300 sanitation workers started a labor strike. This happened on February 12, 1968.

The strike lasted for two months. It stopped garbage collection in the city. This caused many problems and brought national attention to the workers' struggle.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Joins the Cause

The strike became so important that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. came to Memphis. He wanted to help the workers protest in his peaceful, nonviolent way. His presence greatly inspired the community.

Dr. King gave a very famous speech called "I've Been to the Mountaintop." He delivered it at the Mason Temple Church. He encouraged the protesters with powerful words. He said, "I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land."

The Strike's End and Legacy

Sadly, Dr. King was assassinated the very next day. On April 8, 1968, his wife, Coretta Scott King, came to Memphis. She led a peaceful memorial march to honor Dr. King's life. About 40,000 people joined her. They silently held protest signs and remembered Dr. King and his fight for justice.

Finally, on April 16, 1968, the Memphis Sanitation Strike ended. A top U.S. labor official named James Reynolds helped to reach an agreement. The workers won their fight for better pay and safer jobs. This strike showed the power of peaceful protest and standing up for what is right.

Images for kids

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  First edition