Bring History to Life with Jonathan King
Jonathan King is an author, historian, and public speaker who offers engaging presentations on the Civil Rights Movement, leadership, resilience, racial reconciliation, and the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As the son of Civil Rights leaders Marion and Slater King and a child who marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jonathan provides a rare firsthand perspective on one of the most important periods in American history.
His presentations combine historical insight, personal storytelling, and lessons that resonate with audiences of all ages. Jonathan speaks at: Elementary, middle, and high schools; Colleges and universities; Libraries; Churches and faith communities; Museums and historical organizations; Civic groups (Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions Club, etc.); Black History Month celebrations; Martin Luther King Jr. Day programs; Community and cultural events; and Corporate leadership and diversity programs.
Presentations typically last 30, 45, or 60 minutes and can be customized to meet the needs of your organization.
Why Invite Jonathan King?
Many students learn about the Civil Rights Movement through textbooks. Jonathan lived it. As a child, he witnessed the sacrifices, dangers, and courage of ordinary families who helped change America. He experienced marches, arrests, threats, school integration, and the personal costs of standing up for justice.
His presentations help audiences:
- Understand the Civil Rights Movement through the eyes of a child
- Connect history to current issues of leadership, courage, and inclusion
- Learn about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. from someone who knew him personally
- Explore the importance of empathy, unity, and service
- Discover how adversity can shape purpose and character
These presentations are especially popular during:
- Black History Month
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- Civil Rights History units
- Leadership conferences
- Character education programs
- Diversity and inclusion initiatives
A Seat at the Table - Presentation Topics
Growing Up with Dr. King: A Child's Journey from Division to Unity
Jonathan shares his remarkable story of growing up in the heart of the Civil Rights Movement and how his understanding of his parents' struggle evolved over time.
Audience: Middle School, High School, College, Adult
What It Was Really Like to Know Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Students learn about Dr. King as a historical figure. Jonathan introduces them to the man behind the history: a trusted family friend known affectionately as "Uncle Marty."
Audience: Elementary, Middle School, High School, Adult
Courage Has a Cost
Through personal stories of marches, arrests, threats, and school integration, Jonathan explores what courage looks like when standing up for what is right.
Audience: Middle School, High School, College
The Unity of Mankind
Drawing from experiences across America, Asia, Africa, and Canada, Jonathan discusses the lessons that ultimately helped him understand the vision his parents and Dr. King fought to achieve.
Audience: High School, College, Adult, Faith Communities
Audience-Specific Programs
- Elementary School: Age-appropriate presentations focusing on kindness, fairness, courage, and friendship.
- Middle School: Civil Rights history, bullying, resilience, and standing up for others.
- High School: Civil Rights history, leadership, social change, and personal responsibility.
- College & University: Civil Rights history, leadership, social movements, racial healing, and community building.
- Adult Audiences: Historical presentations, leadership lessons, civic engagement, and personal reflections from the Civil Rights era.
Speaking Fees
Jonathan is committed to making Civil Rights education accessible.
- Schools: No speaker fee for local schools (subject to availability).
- Libraries, Churches, and Community Organizations: Honorarium requested based on event size and travel requirements.
Travel Guidelines
- Local (Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, Lake Elsinore, Riverside County): Honorarium only
- Southern California (more than 50 miles): Honorarium plus travel expenses
- Out-of-State Events: Contact for customized quote
- Virtual Presentations (Zoom): Available nationwide