Reception for Nobel Prize recipient Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

This episode is from the WNYC archives. It may contain language which is no longer politically or socially appropriate.

Hubert Humphrey speaks. Grateful that Dr. King returned safely, "can think of no one that has done more to give true meaning to that precious word called 'peace.'"

Patterson introduces Wagner, thanks audience. Makes a joke about Bobby Kennedy. References the ceremony earlier in the day (71044 / RT294 / T713 / T714), "we claim you henceforth as an honorary New Yorker." Dr. King knows the way. "His way of peace is at the helm of the struggle." Thanks Dr. King with a "handsome desk set."

Sounds of photographers wanting pictures.

See also 71044.

Patterson introduces Dr. King. Appreciation to Mayor Wagner. Speech similar to his Nobel Prize acceptance speech. Calls out some attendees (including James Farmer). Racial injustice, poverty, and war. "I'm absolutely convinced that our nation, or the world, will never rise to full maturity until somehow we can get rid of the long night of man's inhumanity to man, until we can get rid of racial injustice." The problem of war. "If we believe that life is worth living, we must find an alternative to war."

King's speech ends and the program is closed. Cleveland Robinson interrupts to beg those in attendance to let Dr. King leave the room quickly.

Audio courtesy of the NYC Municipal Archives WNYC Collection

WNYC archives id: 71046
Municipal archives id: T443