A revolutionary, learned about since primary school, a well spoken, nonviolent representative of the civil rights movement, and a radical activist in his community and country, Martin Luther King Jr. was undoubtedly a man to be remembered.  Awarded a national holiday in his name, 15 years after his assassination in 1968, America’s opinion on him has definitely shifted into a more positive light. Though, throughout the years the concern proposed if MLK’s initial ideologies are being accurately portrayed in his legacy.

Before posting an inspirational King quote on social media be sure to fact check if they are actually his. This situation has occurred significantly more due to the Internet’s lack of information regulation. Often, quotes claiming to be his are overly emotional and used to justify an idea that King had never advocated for. A common mistaken quote is, “Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would still go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree,” a quote by the religious leader from the 15th century, Martin Luther.

In recent news, Twitter erupted over the FBI’s tweet regarding the anniversary of the death of MLK Jr. They tweeted, “Today, on the anniversary of his assassination, the FBI honors the life, work, & commitment of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to justice.” The tweet was posted with a picture of Dr. King with his quote “We shall overcome because the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” Twitter users were upset due to the FBI not supporting King’s works while he was living.

The FBI were very prevalent throughout King’s career keeping track of his involvements in civil rights activism and his political standpoints. The Bureau accused the leader of having communist tendencies and conspiracies against the state. Throughout Hoover’s presidency King was often targeted, yet now the FBI appreciates the civil work King did during his lifetime.

Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy should be one recognized for all that it was. His civil disobedience in the Montgomery bus boycotts, his 30 arrests, and his controversial speeches, should all be celebrated on his remembrance day.