Martin Luther King Junior's son spoke in Philadelphia, just a few days before the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington.
He addressed a group of 18 to 21 years olds who graduated today from the YouthBuild Charter School. The more than 100 graduates were students who previously dropped out of high school.
"Anything we can to inspire young people to assume their rightful roles, I want to be a part of that effort," said King.
He delivered the keynote address at the ceremony, held at Zion Baptist Church at 3600 N. Broad Street.
His speech focused on social issues like voter rights, violence and poverty. King told NBC10's Matt DeLucia that he doesn't think there's been enough progress.
"When you're working for freedom, justice and equality, it's a lifelong struggle. It's not something that happens overnight," said King.
After the graduation ceremony, King left for Washington, DC where there are many events leading up to August 28 anniversary of his father's famous civil rights march.
Photo Credit: NBC10 Philadelphia