APWU Retiree Fulfills a ‘Dream’

Retired APWU member John Lee will fulfill a personal dream on Aug. 26, when he recites the “I Have a Dream" speech as part of festivities preceding the dedication of a statue of Martin Luther King Jr. on the National Mall. 

Lee, a member of the Oklahoma City Local, has been reciting the speech at black history programs in churches and schools for about 10 years. When he learned about plans for unveiling King’s statue approximately a month ago, he contacted event organizers and offered to recite the famous speech.

But before his offer was accepted, Lee had to submit a recording of a previous performance. “I overnighted a DVD,” he said. “With all the people who perform the speech around the country, I didn’t know if I stood a chance.”

About three weeks later he got the good news. “I was thrilled to be selected,” he said. “It is a high honor.”

Lee will deliver the speech at approximately 3:45 p.m. on Friday, at the Washington Convention Center. The event is free and open to the public. The expo will feature exhibits and performances honoring the slain Civil Rights leader. Other activities celebrating King’s legacy include concerts, a luncheon, youth event, and black-tie celebration. Many of the events require attendees to purchase tickets in advance.

The official dedication of the statue will take place on Sunday, Aug. 28, at 11 a.m. It is free and open to the public.

Lee began his postal career in 1997 and spent the majority of his career as a Flat Sorter Machine operator. He served as an APWU steward beginning in 2003, and became Tour 3 chief steward after about two years. He retired on June 30. www.dedicatethedream.org