"Let Freedom Ring!" Honoring Dr. King's Legacy

These three words, “Let Freedom Ring,” serve as a powerful call to action, inspiring individuals to stand up for their rights and fight against injustice. Dr. King's “I Have a Dream” speech, a message of freedom with direct mention of Stone Mountain in metropolitan Atlanta, encompasses both political and social freedoms, emphasizing the need for equality and the elimination of prejudice.

"Let Freedom Ring," a painting by Georgia Artist Olivia Thomason.Photo byDown South Today

“I was emotionally touched by Dr. King's message," said folk artist Olivia Thomason, who lived in Atlanta at the time of Dr. King's speech, "and when I moved to Stone Mountain, I was inspired to create a painting that symbolized how I felt and how these visionary words impacted my life and the lives of so many others.”

The phrase "Let Freedom Ring" is repeated several times in the speech, amplifying its significance and lasting impact. Dr. King emphasized that freedom should be universal for all Americans, regardless of their race or background.

Ms. Thomason’s painting displays a bell similar to the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia. The crowd in the city near the base of the mountain is beneath a flowing American flag with doves of peace flying in formation. The ringing symbolizes the unity of all people, coming together to create a harmonious society, responding to a call for freedom.

The Village of Stone Mountain, as Ms. Thomason views it, is "culturally anchored to the mountain. It's not just a name but a mighty symbol that Dr. King, through his eloquence, used as a challenge to everyone to live, work, play and worship together in friendship and love. That's what I want my painting to reflect.”

“Let Freedom Ring” is one of the most memorable parts of Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech which is a timeless reminder that the pursuit of a better world begins within each of us. It is a challenge to tap into our better angels and to take courageous steps towards building a society that reflects the values of equality and justice.The immortal words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. resonate today as they did on that day in Washington.

Olivia Thomason continues to produce paintings that honor family, neighborhoods, traditions, church and lifestyles. Praised by Atlanta historian Dr. Richard Funderburke as "Georgia's Queen of Folk Art," she lives in Stone Mountain Village where she maintains a home studio.

Georgia Folk Artist Olivia ThomasonPhoto byDown South Today