In recent years, we have repeatedly heard the quote “the fierce urgency of now.” However, The Three Fifths August Issue will focus on a lesser-known phrase as its theme from the same “I Have a Dream speech.” “the urgency of the moment,” in context.

In Honor of the 59th Anniversary of the March on Washington, where Dr. King presented this iconic speech, Three-Fifths Magazine takes a special look backward and forward all at the same time, understanding the similarities and differences between August 1963 and August 2022 and beyond in America.

We have heard many times over the years the quote below used out of context as an excuse for cultural colorblindness, and characterization of racial justice seekers as divisive.

“We have also come to his hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now.

This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism.

“Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy; now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice; now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood; now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God’s children.

It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment.”

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.