Controversial Former U.S. Official Speaks At Hopkins' MLK Event
BALTIMORE (WJZ)-- Johns Hopkins Hospital held its 29th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Program, an event that honors the legacy of Dr. King.
Kai Jackson reports that this year's event featured controversial former Department of Agriculture employee Shirley Sherrod.
The Unified Voices of the Johns Hopkins Hospital welcomed visitors to the 29th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Program on Friday.
Former U.S. agriculture official Shirley Sherrod was the featured speaker.
She was thrust into the national spotlight last year after retelling a story of how she once had prejudice against a white farmer. The controversial portion hit the Internet and TV. But it was only days later that the complete speech was revealed in which Sherrod admitted she changed and eventually helped that farmer.
"It was so unbelievable for someone to accuse me of being a racist," Sherrod said.
Sherrod was forced to resign from her job. Although she was later vindicated and offered other positions, she says it's a lesson from which all can learn.
"Yes there's still black and white issues, but that's not the only issue here. It's about those of us who have versus those of us who do not. Those who are in power versus those who do not have power," Sherrod said.
Levi Watkins started the Hopkins MLK program in 1982. Next year will mark the 30th year for the event.
