Summary Response of Martin Luther King Jr.'s Letter From a Birmingham Jail

Summary:

In Martin Luther King Jr.'s "Letter From a Birmingham Jail," he responds to criticism from fellow Religious leaders who didn't approve of his nonviolent direct action. His use of nonviolent direct action was crucial in getting across his point of eventually ending segregation. Dr. King cites several personal and religious examples to argue his point of the severity of segregation. Dr. King justifies his use of nonviolent direct action as the best method of change in his specific situation. He also deconstructs critics arguments and explains his disappointment in the church's lack of action against segregation.

Response:

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wrote this letter to his fellow religious clergymen in response to the overwhelming segregation he had witnessed Birmingham. He realized there still are so many steps that need to be taken before justice is reached and segregation is quieted. His tone was overall very humble and professional towards the beginning and end of his letter but in the middle his voice is stern as he describes the problems with segregation and the steps that need to be made immediately.  However his message was clear as he addressed his main points. His message was that there is a major injustice in America and especially in Birmingham. This injustice is hate and sinful ways that comes with segregation. His sit-in protest was not violent action but it was action that is necessary in ending this segregation. He claims we must keep standing up against unjust laws by being proud and willing to take the punishment. The time is now for action. Eventually Our actions will have a great effect on our future.