Trump's Second Inauguration Coincides with MLK Day, Highlighting National Divisions

As Trump pledges to honor King's legacy, civil rights advocates rally to defend equality and diversity initiatives.

Donald Trump was sworn in for a second term as president on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a juxtaposition that drew attention to contrasting visions for the nation's future.
Trump's inauguration speech included a promise to realize King's dream, though critics pointed to his administration's plans to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies.
At the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church Washington, D.C., Rev. Al Sharpton led a rally calling for the defense of civil rights and criticized Trump's policies as inconsistent with King's legacy.
Protests and events honoring King's legacy occurred across the country, including a march in Philadelphia and gatherings at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in D.C., where attendees expressed both defiance and cautious optimism.
Activists emphasized the importance of continuing King's fight for justice and equality, with many pledging to resist policies they view as regressive while fostering community solidarity.