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No doubt, MLK was non-violent, but that doesn't mean he didn't have some very harsh words to say. Calling the United States - his own country - the greatest purveyor of violence in the world is just one example.
It's very true that the words and actions of historical figures are warped to benefit others. It's important, and necessary, for those in power to co-opt popular challenging figures in order to minimize their impact on the status quo. King is a great example of this, as we are constantly treated to selective exerpts of his "I have a dream" speech, while so many of his other words and actions are summarily ignored, because they do not fit into the status quo's preferred image of him. Jesus is another great example, as someone who led a movement which was distinctively political and cultural whose memory has now been integrated into the establishment and a happy-go-lucky dude who just wants us all to get along.
And as much as Lennon was a decent guy...listing him in the same sentence as King is just plain offensive.
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Le temps détruit tout
"Musicians are the carriers and communicators of spirit in the most immediate sense." - Kurt Elling
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