Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. | January 19, 2026

Today we honor the life, words, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Not with empty quotes. Not with performative posts. But with action, accountability, and commitment.

Upholding Dr. King's Legacy

At Please Don’t Die Black Men (PDDBM), 2026 is about holding true to Dr. King’s morals, even when it is uncomfortable. Even when it is lonely. Even when no one stands beside us.

Dr. King taught us that justice is not passive. It requires courage, integrity, and accountability. This accountability must start within our own community. If we do not hold our own people accountable, we cannot honestly demand accountability from others when injustices are committed against us.

Our Commitment to Justice

In 2026, PDDBM will continue to fight injustice for our youth in Clark County, Washington. We will do this whether we are supported or not. We will do this whether we are applauded or attacked. We will do this whether doors are opened or slammed in our faces.

We will continue to uplift, inspire, empower, and educate our youth. We will teach them how to work for themselves in a country where employment is not guaranteed, equity is not promised, and opportunity is often withheld. We will provide them with real skills, real platforms, and real ownership of their creativity and their voices.

Let it be known: our fight in 2026 is for the youth of Clark County, WA. And we will not stop.

Facing Challenges Head-On

People may try to trip us up. Businesses may try to demean us. Institutions may try to demoralize us. Some have already tried. Many expected us to fail in 2025. They watched. They waited.

Our Resilience

WE ARE STILL HERE!

And we are not going anywhere.

We will keep reminding our youth that they are strong, brilliant, wise, and capable of doing anything they set their minds to, even when the world tells them otherwise.

We will provide a platform where their voices matter. Where their stories are told. Where their creativity shines without permission or apology.

This is not a moment. This is a movement.

Moving Forward with Purpose

In the spirit of Dr. King, we move forward not in fear, but in purpose. Not in silence, but in truth. Not in comfort, but in courage.

We are here.

We are committed.

And we are not going anywhere.

The Importance of Community Engagement

Engaging with our community is essential. We need to foster connections that empower our youth. This means creating spaces where they can express themselves freely. It also means listening to their needs and concerns.

Building Skills for the Future

Our youth deserve opportunities that prepare them for the future. We focus on teaching practical skills that will help them thrive. Whether it’s financial literacy, entrepreneurship, or creative arts, we aim to equip them with the tools they need.

Encouraging Leadership

Leadership is vital for our youth. We encourage them to take charge of their narratives. By fostering leadership skills, we empower them to advocate for themselves and their communities.

Celebrating Achievements

Every step forward is worth celebrating. We recognize the achievements of our youth, no matter how small. Celebrating these milestones builds confidence and inspires others to pursue their dreams.

The Role of Mentorship

Mentorship plays a crucial role in youth development. We connect young individuals with mentors who can guide them. These relationships provide support, encouragement, and valuable insights into various fields.

Advocating for Change

Advocacy is at the heart of our mission. We strive to raise awareness about the issues affecting our community. By advocating for change, we aim to create a more equitable society for all.

The Future is Bright

The future is bright for our youth. With the right support and resources, they can achieve greatness. Our commitment is unwavering, and we will continue to fight for their success.

In conclusion, we stand firm in our mission. We honor Dr. King's legacy by taking action and holding ourselves accountable. Together, we will uplift our youth and create a brighter future for all.

—Please Don’t Die Black Men (PDDBM)