Justice, Democracy and Hope through Travel

"There are very few people around the world that are as well-known, and well-loved, as Martin Luther King Jr. He's one of the most inspiring individuals that this nation produced." Source: Delta Airlines magazine

MLK, the man of peace, also dedicated his life to travel by logging over six million miles between 1957 and 1968. He effectively raised people's cultural awareness and empathy by giving speeches from the rugged trails of Appalachia to the mountain ranges of India. Today is a good day to reflect on that thought. MLK knew the simple act of travel reduces stereotypes, racial segregation and prejudices. He believed in the transformative power of travel by meeting the less fortunate in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe and in all 50 states. He also understood how quickly a third world country could bounce back when tourism dollars pour in. Since his assassination, his teachings on the environmental, socio-cultural and economic impacts of travel haven't changed much. And, happily, travelers spend more time and money in foreign or exotic destinations and than ever before. That makes tourism the world's number one export earner - ahead of automotive products, chemicals, petroleum and food. MLK's words ignited more than just a dream of nonviolence and social change. His visions for a better world are broadened every time any one of us crosses the horizon to shake hands with a foreigner.