This year, as Tektronix commemorates the inspiring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we invited our employees to share their personal reflections on how Dr. King has left a mark on their lives.
We hope the reflections below from Cassandra Sferra, Talent Acquisition Partner, Ancil Tucker, Software Development Manager, and Ferryn Palmer, Talent Acquisition Specialist, inspire you and help you think about Dr. King's lasting legacy.
Reflections of Cassandra Sferra, Talent Acquisition Partner
Can you share a personal story or experience related to Dr. King's impact on your life or community?
“In school, I wrote a paper on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to this day it is the only paper I remember writing (literally the only one). I researched for weeks to try and write the perfect re-iteration of Dr. King's life and impact. I will never forget how many books and web pages I went through. The conclusion of my paper and my belief to this day, is that Dr. King's bold words about faith, love, forgiveness, and standing up for what is right, helped to change the mindset of generations and made him one of the most impactful and inspiring leaders this world will ever see.”
Dr. King emphasized the importance of building a beloved community. How can we foster inclusivity and understanding within our own communities?
“By helping and encouraging one another.”
Are there specific teachings or quotes from Dr. King that have inspired you in your life's work?
“If you can't fly, run. If you can't run, walk. If you can't walk, crawl. But by all means, keep moving.”
Reflections of Ancil Tucker, Software Development Manager
Can you share a personal story or experience related to Dr. King's impact on your life or community?
“I was raised in a middle-class white gentile family in South Florida in the 60s and 70s. One difference between my older sister's school experience and mine was that our schools were racially integrated when I was in second grade. As such, I went to school with a lot of black kids. My parent's peers took issue with this and let me know that, in their opinion, close friendships would be frowned upon. This was a ubiquitous topic at any gathering. Dr. King's message for me, something I heard often as a child, was a liberation for white people in the South. He gave voice to a different way. He gave voice to peace and sharing and cooperation instead of hate and fear. When white people truly heard his words, you could almost see a weight being lifted off of their spirits. While it took a long time for change to occur, towards the end of my mother's life, her neighbor and best friend was black.” Ancil Tucker, Software Development Manager.
Dr. King emphasized the importance of building a beloved community. How can we foster inclusivity and understanding within our own communities?
“We need shared goals and a spirit of volunteerism. I remember when Vira Katz was mayor, and we had a flood coming back in the winter of 1995. She called on the citizens of Portland to come downtown and shore up the sea wall to prevent flooding. A motley crowd of Portlanders all turned out to help because of shared purpose, shared pride and the fact that they were called to sacrifice. We need more of this.”
Are there specific teachings or quotes from Dr. King that have inspired you in your life's work?
“As a white boy in the South, I experienced privilege every day. There were no placed off limits to me and yes, I took that for granted. Coming to terms with being gay was an eye-opener. Privilege evaporated instantly and was replaced with enmity. It was then that the words of Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech really hit home. The simple dignity of being judged on your character rather than on some external label became a life pursuit.”
Reflections of Ferryn Palmer, Talent Acquisition Specialist
Can you share a personal story or experience related to Dr. King's impact on your life or community?
“While in High School I was awarded the MLK scholarship and grant. It involved doing research on Dr. King and writing an essay about what he meant to me. So, there was a monetary impact that was made on my life that can be directly attributed to Dr. King. While the monetary impact was nice, the impact that Dr. King has had on my psyche has been far greater. He has taught me that there is often more than one way to be heard and to approach conflict. Lessons that have served me well on my journey through life thus far!” Ferryn Palmer, Talent Acquisition Specialist.
Dr. King emphasized the importance of building a beloved community. How can we foster inclusivity and understanding within our own communities?
“The 1st and most important step in fostering inclusivity and understanding within our communities is communication. Often just starting a conversation on the subject of inclusivity can be difficult. The 2nd most important step is truly listening to those brave enough to speak. Understanding and solutions can only be found on the other side of conversation and listening.”
Are there specific teachings or quotes from Dr. King that have inspired you in your life's work?
"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." This quote by Dr. King has been my North star!
The reflections of our employees underscore the profound influence of Dr. King's teachings in our lives and work. His legacy continues to inspire us, reminding us of the importance of resilience, inclusivity, and moral courage. As we at Tektronix move forward, we remain committed to upholding Dr. King's vision of a beloved community, fostering understanding and mutual respect every day.