Example of a Relational Leader

Although many decades has passed since the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., his views and message of peace, love, justice, righteousness, accountability and humility still remain critically relevant today. A monument has even been erected in Washington D.C., as a remembrance and tribute to him. King’s message was revolutionary and focused on issues that human beings need to make real progress on. He gave his life for a noble cause and is an inspiration to millions he had but a single vision; making civil rights a reality. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., is known the world over, as a hero and true leader.
Mr. King can be described as the epitome of a relational leader as he possessed all the elements of the relational leadership model. He was not only inclusive, empowering and ethical, but also purposeful and process-oriented. During his now famous ‘I have a dream’ speech, he gave us tremendous insight into how each of us can make the world a better place, a place where all people are created free and equal. He strived for inclusive environments where people with varied perspectives, skills and experiences collaborate. By his motivational speeches and the things he said, he empowered black people to feel that they could be more than how white people treated them. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., promoted the best interest of his followers, thus, he was an ethical leader. He was both purposeful and process-oriented in the way he acted on his vision for change. Through his active protests and speeches, he influenced the change of equality, where black people will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.
People followed Dr. King because he lived the values he espoused. He was dedicated to serving others and was willing to sacrifice for the cause. This exceptional human being has planted seeds for many interracial friendships and has impacted lives through many decades. He has shown that with perseverance, self-control and a big