Rev. Al Sharpton has announced plans to host a rally in Washington, D.C. on January 20, aligning with both the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump and the Martin Luther King Jr. federal holiday. Sharpton, an outspoken critic of Trump, shared the news during an appearance on MSNBC earlier this week.
In his announcement, Sharpton emphasized the significance of the date, saying, “While Trump supporters will be on one side of Washington watching him take the oath of office, I will be at the nation’s capital working to keep the dream alive.” He stressed the importance of peaceful organization and mobilization during what he called a critical moment for the country.
This rally will take place on the same day as the Women’s March, which became the largest anti-Trump demonstration following the 2017 inauguration. Sharpton had participated in an affiliated rally in New York that year, alongside thousands of other protesters.
The rally is also a statement of resistance, taking place in the same area where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, adding a layer of historical symbolism to the event.
Sharpton’s rally aims to continue advocating for the values championed by King, calling for equality and justice during a time when many are concerned about the direction of the country under Trump’s leadership.
The timing of the rally, alongside the inauguration and the celebration of King’s legacy, underscores Sharpton’s commitment to advancing civil rights and keeping the dream of equality alive in America.
