In an interview with The Independent, Bernice King, the youngest daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., shared her thoughts on President-Elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration coinciding with Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
King described the timing as both ironic and an opportunity for national reflection.
“I’m glad that if it was going to happen, it happened on the King holiday, because Dr. King is still speaking to us,” said King, stressing how the day highlights the contrast between her father’s legacy of justice and unity and Trump’s often polarizing rhetoric.
Following initial reports, King took to Instagram to clarify her sentiments, writing:
“I am glad the inauguration coincides with the King holiday because this nation will be confronted with the sharp contrast between my father, who espoused love and justice, and Trump, who often sanctions hate and injustice.”
She framed the coincidence as a poignant reminder of her father’s values, urging Americans to reflect on the principles of equality, nonviolence, and compassion.
King expressed her concern about Trump’s upcoming administration, warning of potential threats to civil and human rights.
“A Trump win could potentially set in motion a perilous and oppressive presidential administration that would undermine the hard-fought battle for civil and human rights for which my parents and so many others sacrificed,” she said.
While King had refrained from endorsing candidates in nine previous elections, she broke that tradition to support Kamala Harris during the 2024 race, calling Harris a leader who embodied her father’s values.
Though Trump won the election, King sees his inauguration as a “wake-up call” and a challenge to those committed to justice.
“This is an opportunity to stand up to the incoming administration’s charged agenda items,” she concluded.
