Tim Gee*, the General Secretary of the Friends World Committee for Consultation (FWCC), in an article for the Sight Magazine, reflects on Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy in light of the ongoing crisis in Palestine and Israel.
Tim revisits Martin Luther King Jr.’s final speech and the parable of the Good Samaritan in order to challenge us to act with moral courage.
Tim contends that is in contrast to the silence of the many who, in the present day, advocate peace but avoid speaking out on Palestine and Israel. He attributes this reluctance to fear, theological confusion, and institutional reluctance. He thus urges us to emulate Dr. King’s commitment to justice, even when difficult or unpopular.
In short, what would Dr. King say to us today?
The piece, of course, highlights the continuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza along with the courage of many faith groups—including Quakers—who continue to advocate for justice and peace.
*Tim Gee is general secretary of the Friends World Committee for Consultation, and was the 2025 Australia Yearly Meeting (Quakers) Backhouse Lecturer.