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Some kings rule their kingdoms sitting downSurrounded by luxury, soft cushions and fansBut this King stood strongstood proudstood tallWhen the driver told Rosa "Move to the back of the bus!"When the waiter told students "We don't serve your kind!"When the Mayor told voters "Your vote don't count!"And when the sheriff told marchers "Get off our streets!"using fire hoses, police dogs and cattle prodsto move them alongThis King stood strongstood proudstood tallSpeaking of peaceof loveand childrenhand in handfree at lastfree at lastWhen some yelled for violenceFor angry revengeAn eye for an eyeAnd a tooth for a toothHe stood his groundPreaching peaceAnd when some spit out hateHe stood there smilingSpreading loveUntil it rolled like the sea across the landSweeping away Jim CrowBreaking down the wallsRinging the bellJoyfullyFor FreedomUntilStanding on the mountain topThey shot himColdlyHoping to see him fallHoping to put him awayTo bring him lowBut this Kingeven in deatheven todaystands strongstands proudstands tallAnd we remember