The letter, addressed to Martin Luther King III and signed by all nine members of the Council, praises Mrs. King as a “tireless advocate for civil rights and racial equality” whose courage, grace and dignity “left her with a global extended family that has admired and idolized her outstanding work since your father was taken from your family in 1968.”

“Mrs. King established a legacy nearly as outstanding and enduring as that of her husband’s,” said Councilmember Larry Gossett. “When she had every right to be a grieving spouse, when she had every right to leave the movement and raise her family in peace, she picked up Dr. King’s standard and lifted it to newer heights. Her strength, determination and inherent goodness will be missed.”

“This remarkable woman carried the banner for human rights around the world, even as she faced the challenges all single parents have in raising their children,” said Council Chair Larry Phillips. “We cannot forget that when Dr. King was taken from Coretta and his family, their oldest child was 12 and their youngest child had recently celebrated her fifth birthday. Mrs. King’s life was a gift that will serve as an inspiration for future generations.”