Dexter Scott King, Civil Rights Activist and Son of Martin Luther King Jr., Passes Away at 62

An Enduring Legacy of Advocacy and Social Change

With profound sorrow, the King family and the King Center announced the passing of Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of the iconic civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A steadfast champion of social justice and equality, Dexter King succumbed to a valiant battle with prostate cancer on January 9, 2024, at the age of 62.

Dexter King’s life was a testament to the enduring legacy of his father’s nonviolent activism and unwavering commitment to human rights. As the third child of Dr. King and Coretta Scott King, Dexter grew up immersed in the tumultuous yet transformative era of the civil rights movement. His childhood was indelibly marked by the assassination of his father in 1968, a tragedy that profoundly shaped his life and inspired his lifelong dedication to social change.

A Life Dedicated to Nonviolent Advocacy

Dexter King’s activism was deeply rooted in the principles of nonviolence and peaceful resistance espoused by his father. He served as the chairman of The King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, a non-profit organization founded by Coretta Scott King to perpetuate Dr. King’s legacy of nonviolent activism. Through this role, Dexter tirelessly worked to promote dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation among diverse communities, fostering a more just and equitable society.

Dexter King’s commitment to social justice extended beyond the civil rights movement. He was a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, environmental protection, and animal rights. His unwavering belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings led him to adopt a vegan lifestyle and champion animal welfare causes. Dexter’s activism was a reflection of his deep compassion and his conviction that true justice encompasses all aspects of society.

A Bridge Between Generations

Dexter King played a pivotal role in bridging the past and present of the civil rights movement. As a child, he witnessed firsthand the transformative power of nonviolent resistance and the sacrifices made by his parents and countless others in the pursuit of equality. Throughout his life, he shared his insights and experiences with younger generations, inspiring them to carry the torch of social justice and continue the fight for a more just and equitable world.

Dexter King’s passing is a profound loss for the civil rights movement, the global community of activists, and all those who strive for a better world. His legacy as a tireless advocate for nonviolence, social justice, and animal rights will continue to inspire generations to come.

Reactions and Tributes Pour In

The news of Dexter King’s passing was met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from civil rights leaders, politicians, and countless individuals whose lives he touched.

Martin Luther King III, Dexter’s older brother, expressed his profound sorrow and devastation at the loss of his beloved sibling. He implored the public to keep the entire King family in their prayers, especially Dexter’s wife, Leah Weber King.

The Reverend Al Sharpton, a prominent civil rights leader, expressed his heartbreak at Dexter King’s passing but found solace in the knowledge that he is reunited with his parents and sister.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens offered his condolences to the King family, lauding Dexter’s unwavering love for his family and his role as a guardian of his father and mother’s legacies. He highlighted Dexter’s multifaceted career as a Morehouse Man, humanitarian, civil rights activist, and actor, emphasizing his dedication to family above all else.

A Life Well Lived, a Legacy That Endures

Dexter Scott King’s life was a testament to the power of nonviolent activism, the enduring legacy of his father’s work, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Through his unwavering commitment to social justice, his advocacy for animal rights, and his dedication to bridging generations, Dexter King left an indelible mark on the world. His passing is a profound loss, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.