The Golden State Warriors paid tribute to Dr. Clarence B. Jones and honored the attorney and social justice advocate as their official “Impact Warrior.”
The ceremony took place during the special Martin Luther King Jr. Monday’s Day game against the Boston Celtics.
Dr. Jones, co-author of Dr.’s historic “I Have a Dream” speech. Martin Luther King Jr., reflected on the lasting legacy of his late friend and colleague.
“I’m amazed, as I sat in this arena today and looked out over the basketball court. I thought to myself, this brother, if he had lived, would have been 96 years old,” said Dr. Jones. . “And I said, ‘Here we are at a basketball game, and they’re still quoting him!’ I say to myself, ‘Martin, they’re still quoting you.'”
The day served as a time to celebrate Dr. to honor King while recognizing those who stood with him during pivotal moments in the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. Jones shared a poignant memory of a conversation with Dr. King that still resonates deeply.
“He said to me, ‘Anyone can walk with you in the warm sunlight of an August summer. But only a winter soldier will walk with you at midnight in the alpine cold of winter.” At that moment he turned and said, “Clarence, you and Stanley” – a lawyer named Stanley Levison – “you are my winter soldiers.”
As the U.S. continues to grapple with issues of justice and equality, Dr. Jones reflected on the importance of continuing Dr. King’s vision, especially as the country marked a new chapter with the inauguration of President Donald Trump.
“I’m hopeful that he has enough sense, to quote Spike Lee, to do the right thing,” said Dr. Jones.
The Warriors’ tribute and Dr.’s reflections Jones underlined the continued relevance of Dr. King’s message of equality, justice and perseverance, which served as a bridge between generations committed to the ongoing struggle for freedom.