Choosing Courage: Honouring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy Through Nonviolence

On Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a powerful message resurfaces—one that continues to shape movements, communities, and individuals across generations: nonviolence is not passive; it is courageous.

In a message shared by Teny Gross, Chief Executive Officer of Institute for Nonviolence Chicago, this idea is brought to life through both reflection and action. Drawing from Dr. King’s philosophy, Gross emphasizes that nonviolence is an active and hopeful way of life—one that calls on individuals to respond to conflict without anger, to replace hatred with understanding, and to build community even in the face of difficulty.

At its core, courage is defined not just by grand gestures, but by the refusal to remain a bystander.

Today, that courage is visible in communities across Chicago. Through programs and services led by the Institute for Nonviolence Chicago, individuals—young and old—are choosing peace in tangible ways. They are working with purpose to transform their own lives, while strengthening their families and neighbourhoods. The impact extends beyond individual change; it reflects a collective effort to reshape communities through empathy, accountability, and support.

What stands out is the breadth of this courage. It is seen in participants who commit to change, in outreach workers who engage directly with communities, in those providing victim support, and in workforce development initiatives that create pathways forward. It is equally present in donors, partners, and everyday individuals who stand up for peace and justice in their own environments.

As the Institute marks a decade of service, there is a sense of both reflection and forward momentum. The past ten years have demonstrated what is possible when courage and community intersect. Looking ahead, the vision remains rooted in the same principles—building safer, more connected communities through sustained engagement and shared responsibility.

Chicago has long been known as a city of resilience. In this vision, it is also a city of possibility—a place where “Big Shoulders” are matched with “Big Dreams.” The invitation is clear: everyone has a role to play, whether through support, learning, partnership, or everyday actions that foster connection and safety.

In remembering Dr. King’s words, the message is not only about reflection, but participation. Nonviolence requires effort, intention, and above all, courage.

Choose peace.

To learn more: https://www.nonviolencechicago.org/ourvalues