In the tapestry of history, certain figures emerge with an indomitable spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the world. Among these luminaries stands a young girl of unparalleled strength, grace, and influence. Yolanda Renee King, who is the granddaughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Last month on February 24th, the young activist connected with The Athlete’s Foot (TAF), the renowned global retailer celebrated for its athletic-inspired lifestyle and streetwear. The retailer hosted a Black History Month Youth Day Event. This event came to fruition through a strategic partnership with leading organizations, including Finish First, a premier sports performance group, Movers and Pacers, a community-focused running club, and Delta Community, renowned for its commitment to financial literacy. The event which took place in Atlanta, GA featured youth activist Yolanda Renee King, granddaughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as a distinguished guest and speaker, inspiring participants with her advocacy for equality and justice.
Another special guest was also literacy advocate and entrepreneur, Sidney Keys III, Author, CEO & Founder, of Books N Bros an innovative online book club championing Black boys’ empowerment through literature. The event was a vibrant celebration of Black American heritage, aiming to empower youth through a comprehensive program focused on health, wellness, and financial literacy. The day of the event started with a Youth Run organized by Movers & Pacers, where participants experienced a unique run/walk around historic Auburn Avenue. This activity was designed for physical engagement and enlightening conversations on significant Black History Month themes, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation among the youth.
After recharging with a nutritious lunch provided by the organizers, the young attendees were invited to a Basketball Clinic. This clinic aimed to refine their athletic skills while promoting teamwork and discipline. The day’s activities concluded with a crucial Financial Literacy Chat conducted by seasoned professionals from Delta Community. This discussion was tailored to impart vital financial knowledge and skills, laying the groundwork for the participants’ future financial well-being and success. Through this comprehensive agenda, the event was able to instill a sense of pride, health, and financial savvy in the youth, celebrating the legacy of Black Americans while equipping the next generation for a bright future.
Highlighting the event, The Athlete’s Foot was proud to present a $5,000 donation to The Drum Major Institute, a testament to their commitment to the values of equality and justice. This significant contribution was accepted by youth activist Yolanda Renee King, head of the Youth Council.
About The Athlete’s Foot (TAF):
More than just a retail store but branded to be a destination for athletic street style, The Athlete’s Foot is a global retailer of athletic-inspired lifestyle for streetwear, footwear, apparel, and accessories. The Athlete’s Foot sneaker and streetwear chain has 550 stores and e-commerce shops in 30+ countries. Its global headquarters are in Stans, Switzerland, and Atlanta, Ga. in the United States. For further information please go to theathletesfootstores.com.
We are so amazed at the work this young activist, Yolanda King is doing in her community. We had the chance to catch up with her and chat, so let’s dive into our recent interview with her.
First of all thank you for taking the time out to speak with FEMI. Not only have you been making iconic moves and history for yourself, but you come from an iconic bloodline. What was that like for you growing up and thus far?
My grandparents’ legacy inspires me to action, and to use my voice for social issues that impact my generation. My parents never forced me to do this work because they understood that sometimes it can be disheartening. But, I do feel like it’s almost impossible not to feel as though I have an obligation to be actively involved in issues affecting my generation. When I look at the state of the world, I feel like I have a moral obligation to do this work.
Times have evolved, and a lot of our black and brown people are really getting a handle on supporting the culture and getting involved thanks to programs that are available now. You’ve been a part of the movement. What was it that made you decide to delve into that industry?
In my generation, we’ve watched as our rights have been rolled back, my peers have faced the threat of gun violence in schools, and Black and Brown kids my own age have been the target of violence and bigotry. I don’t think that there is much of a choice—we all have to decide if we are going to stand on the sidelines or if we are going to speak up. I chose not to be silent.
I love the fact that you’re getting involved with the youth. That’s an amazing place to start. What are some of the strategies and techniques you use to make sure you’re educating our youth on activism?
My advice is to use your talent and find a way to connect to activism, whether that is starting a club or gathering a bunch of friends and engaging the community in a positive way or writing to politicians. And when you get old enough to vote, use your voice. Encourage family members to vote and friends who can vote. Find politicians with solutions to issues that are aligned with causes you believe in because if you’re able to select them then you can really see the change.
“We Dream A World: Carrying the Light from My Grandparents, was released on your grandfather’s 95th birthday. What made you choose that particular date?
The book was published on January 2, 2024, in advance of the commemoration of my grandfather’s 95th birthday. My grandmother, Coretta Scott King, wanted the King Holiday to be a day of service. It’s an opportunity to better yourself and your community. I view it as a chance to advance those values of peace, justice, and equity that my grandparents believed in. My book is about seeing the dream my grandparents held and finding it in yourself to commit to the necessary work to get there. Releasing the book in advance of the King holiday was a way to share that message of service and sacrifice.
At 15 and having never met your grandfather Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.; you’ve decided to carry the torch and continue the legacy. What are your aspirations in doing so?
I hope to one day realize the dream that my grandfather had and one that he gave his life for. It was about more than ending segregation. It was a dream about economic justice, freedom, and peace. I think my generation is the one that can realize the dream. There still is a lot of work that needs to be done to address the “triple evils” of racism, poverty, and violence to create lasting, positive change across communities. Through the Drum Major Institute (DMI), I am committed along with my parents to carrying forward my grandfather’s legacy and to advancing positive change.
You’re motivating the youth to use their talents and gifts to change the world. What do you feel is key in doing so?
These issues, unfortunately, they can’t wait to be solved later. Commitment and perseverance are key. There are going to be other generations that are coming in and we need to solve them now so that we don’t stay where we are. I think now it’s our responsibility. Also, if you look at all the major movements, there are a bunch of young people that are always involved. They’re really always led by young people. If you look at the civil rights movement, there were a lot of college students and high school students, elementary students are heavily involved with.
If you could plan an outing what your late grandfather, what would that look like for you?
My dad always shares stories with me that not many people get to hear. He passed when my father was only 10, so to him, he wasn’t the historic figure he is seen as today. He was Dad. I think I’d want to spend time with him as just being my grandfather.
What’s next for Yolanda King?
There is so much on the table and so many challenges that we are facing as a nation and generation. I want to take it one day at a time. That’s how we build a movement and realize the dream. I don’t know what the future holds, but, as my grandfather said, the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.
What message of encouragement would you like to share with the youth to help motivate them to keep going when things aren’t the best?
You have to have perseverance. I think really seeing the impact is the most rewarding, because sometimes, you can feel very discouraged and feel like nothing’s going to get done. But when you see an impact and you actually see the improvement that was made, because you put in the work, that’s really a rewarding feeling.
Connect with this amazing young lady on Instagram to keep up with her journey.
