There is a literal as well as a figurative application to one of Dr. King’s oft repeated statements. Going to the mountaintop literally changes your perspective on life and the world. Being on Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park changed my concept of what it means to be human, and what it means to be American. Our nation is liberally blessed with mountains, many of which are protected in the National Park and forest systems. But who gets to visit them has historically been a function of race/ethnicity and privilege. As we strive to democratize the public lands system and make these icons of “the public square” truly egalitarian, we come closer to fulfilling Dr. King’s vision and goal, and achieving our country’s stated ideals - Liberty. Equality. Justice for All.
