Dr. Traci Parker '99 is a historian, writer (currently working on her third book), and professor of African American History. She spoke at the Maryvale Parents and Alumnae for Inclusive Community at their November gathering about Black freedom struggles and the intersection of race, love, and political activism. The Castle Great Hall was packed for this presentation!
Dr. Parker focused on Coretta Scott King and her part in the freedom movement. Stating most people couldn't see Coretta as a movement leader since she was a woman, but she was an equal partner to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In fact, Dr. Parker shared Coretta taught Dr. King activism, not the other way around. Dr. King was clear when sharing his admiration for his wife, saying the traits he wanted in a wife, “There were only four; you have them all: intelligence, personality, character, and beauty."
Coretta Scott King was a revolutionary, removing the word 'obey' from her vows with Dr. King, keeping her maiden name, and wearing a blue wedding dress symbolizing freedom. “If that’s all I am, I’ll go crazy,” she told Dr. King in reference to her role as a wife and mother.
After Dr. King's death, Coretta powered on. Dr. Parker believes Coretta is an international symbol of resilience and justice.
Dr. Parker was inspired to research Coretta Scott King after author Jonathan Eig wrote a biography on Dr. King. Dr. Parker stressed that people needed to hear about Coretta and her impact as well.
Dr. Parker with members of the Black Student Union.
Left to Right: London S. '26, Eden W. '27, Traci Parker '99, Taige H. '27, Gabrielle D. '25
Dr. Parker inspired parents, alums, employees, and students. Gabrielle D. '25 said, "Dr. Parker's speech was very empowering. Especially growing up as a young black woman in society, her words were very inspiring to me and gave me motivation to keep my head up in the face of adversity, just as she conveyed through the life of Coretta Scott King."
Traci Parker is currently an Associate Professor at the University of California, Davis after spending nine years at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She received her PhD and M.A. from the University of Chicago and B.A. from Cornell University.
