Comic Alliance reports that a translated version of a 50 years old comic book relating the non-violent civil disobedience movement of Martin Luther King, Jr. was distributed throughout Tahrir Square in Egypt by the American Islamic Congress. The group advocates peace and civil rights through non violent means.
In a recent newsletter to supporters of the American Islamic Congress, Ziada indicated that the translated Martin Luther King comic book had been identified as contributing to the air of peaceful revolution in Egypt. The Fellowship for Reconciliation agreed. Ziada shared this anecdote in her communique:
When, at first, we went to print the comic book, a security officer blocked publication. So we called him and demanded a meeting. He agreed, and we read through the comic book over coffee to address his concerns. At the end, he granted permission to print and then asked: “Could I have a few extra copies for my kids?”
The comic book has been credited with inspiring young activists in Egypt and the larger region (we have a Farsi version as well). Last week I distributed copies in Tahrir Square. Seeing the scene in the square firsthand is amazing. Despite violent attacks and tanks in the street, young people from all walks of life are coming together, organizing food and medical care, and offering a living model of free civil society in action.
The comic book is entitled, “Martin Luther King and the Montgomery Story.”
…… YES ! and as we said in the sixties, Right-On ! Comics alliance ….
Wonderful story — and not surprising that Dr. King’s example is still influencing world events.
As a lifelong comic fan, I find myself looking at this comic and trying to recognize the style. It is very familiar but I can’t place who drew it. Anyone know?
I would like to know, too – looks like Curt Swan, kinda also John Romita, too and old-time Joe Sinnott inking. Whoever drew it had the rare additional talent of capturing a solid likeness within their style…
The drawings were by Al Capp’s studio. The text (and the idea and production) was created by my father, Al Hassler, who worked for the FOR (Fellowship of Reconciliation), a peace and nonviolence organization that played a quiet but decisive role in the early days of the civil rights movement.
What a wonderful idea.
I am interested in having this translated into creole, to distribute in Haiti. Could anyone give me guidance about how to obtain permission to do this?
Thanks very much!
not sure how big of a roll it will play…they giving them away or selling them?
I’d have to see the inside to comment further.
Linda Dienberg asks about permission for translating the Martin Luther King comic book into creole for use in Haiti. Please tell her to contact Fellowship Publications, for@usa.org