By Jasmine Frierson
For decades, the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has remained one of the most significant and controversial moments in American history. Many truths about this day remain blurry, but new files may shed light on unanswered questions as, on Jan. 23, 2025, President Trump asked that MLK Jr.’s assassination files be declassified.
As one of the most influential figures in American history, King's legacy has been shaped by his nonviolent resistance, his speeches, and his commitment to justice. The declassification of these documents has the possibility of creating lasting change in American history.
In April 2022, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the Stop WOKE Act, which severely prohibited teaching African American history in the state of Florida.
Teaching the subject is heavily restricted in Florida with the state government limiting the curriculum due to “concerns about critical race theory.” However, the distortion and censorship of American history leaves little room for journalistic integrity.
In a historic move, President Donald Trump has called for the declassification of files related to Dr. King’s assassination, two years earlier than the scheduled declassification date. This move not only suggests power, but also urgency. The exact number of classified Martin Luther King Jr. files is unknown but uncovering new truths about the assassination is what people want to know. Many conspiracy theories have long revolved around Dr. King’s life, which was shrouded in mystery due to government surveillance, making understanding of his true legacy complicated.
Sarah Riva, Barry history professor, explained how these revelations impact the way students and faculty at Barry understand King’s legacy. Following the renewed sense of hope that more information could be uncovered, Riva stated, “I believe it will likely reaffirm historians' analysis and the commonly accepted narrative.”
It is well known, during King’s lifetime, the FBI viewed him as a threat and attempted to discredit and silence him in the years leading up to his death.
“What I am expecting is to see declassified documents that detail the invasive treatment of Dr. King by the FBI and COINTELPRO. Their actions are already well documented, from wiretapping his phones to sending threatening letters suggesting he die by suicide, and I would not be surprised to learn even more horrific and frankly unconstitutional methods used to try and silence King,” said Riva.
For most students involved in modern social justice movements, the potential release of these files is both timely and significant. A member of Barry’s Black Student Union, Jordana Scarlett, a senior nursing student reflected on the ways in which Dr. King’s legacy is understood by young people today.
“I believe there's an agenda with declassifying the files, and this has the possibility to somewhat tarnish the MLK Jr. legacy that we grew up knowing,” she said.
“I'm wondering why Trump wants the files declassified early? Like what's in it specifically that he wants people to see? Because do you think Trump wants to help Dr. King’s legacy?”
Being aware of the censorship of teaching black history in Florida, the declassification of MLK Jr.’s files offer a crucial opportunity to uncover and share the full scope of his legacy. Whether the information is taught in a classroom or learned through personal research, shedding light on the struggles Dr. King faced against systemic injustice is essential for fostering a deeper understanding of the ongoing fight for equality and inspiring future generations to continue the work he started. Peaceful protests, marches, and using your voice are powerful reminders that action and nonviolent resistance remain vital tools for creating lasting change.
The potential declassification of Martin Luther King Jr.'s files presents a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of his life, legacy, and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. The early release of these fi les has the potential to reveal new aspects of King’s personal life plans or challenges, providing a more complete picture of the man behind the famous speeches.
Contrastingly, these revelations could significantly impact simple historical narratives often taught surrounding King’s life, such as his famous “I Have a Dream” speech and create a spectacle out of his more radical points of view, such as his takes on capitalism and critiques of economic inequality. For students and faculty, these revelations could alter the way King’s legacy is understood and taught. It may also inspire students to see the relevance of King's principles today and contribute to activist work.
Ultimately, President Trump’s push for MLK Jr.’s assassination files to be declassified highlights the urgent need to confront the full history, ensuring that the lessons of the past are understood and applied in today’s fight for justice.
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