Charles White (1918-1979) was an African-American artist. He grew up on the South Side of Chicago. His mother took him to the Art Institute of Chicago as a child. This piece is now part of the collection at that institute. Charles White worked in the style of the Harlem Renaissance. He drew, painted and created lithographs as part of the New Negro Movement also know as the Chicago Black Renaissance. He portrayed struggle and triumph.

This piece was commissioned by the Graphic Arts Council of the LA County Museum of Art. This powerful lithographic done 47 years ago holds the anguish and grief of a continuing shame in our country. I hope you will find time to search this image and your own heart on this day for honoring Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He had a dream that mothers would no longer need to clutch their baby boys and silently scream their prayers for protection in both hope and resignation. Broken hearts are called for on this day – ours.

Lord, hear our prayers and amen.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church