The Presidential Medal of Freedom is one of the highest civilian honors in the United States, awarded to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the U.S., to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. On July 11, 1977, President Jimmy Carter honored Martin Luther King Jr. with a posthumous award of this prestigious medal, presented to King's family in a ceremony held at the White House. This ceremony took place nearly nine years after the civil rights leader was assassinated in 1968, casting a long shadow over America's social landscape and the ongoing quest for civil rights and equality.

During the ceremony, President Carter emphasized King's steadfast commitment to social justice, nonviolence, and understanding across racial divides. He highlighted how King's efforts and teachings continued to resonate with the American public and inspire future generations in their pursuit of equality and human rights for all. The award served not only as recognition for King's legacy but also as a national acknowledgment of the past struggles and sacrifices made in the pursuit of civil rights, bringing to light the importance of continuing the work King started.

The event was attended by various civil rights leaders, dignitaries, and members of the King family, creating a moment of reflection on the social progress made since King's era and the challenges that still lay ahead. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate's vision for a just society remained a guiding principle for many, as people, groups, and movements around the country continued to advocate for civil rights amid a backdrop of ongoing social struggles. This posthumous honor was significant, as it showcased the transformative impact King's work had on American society and its legal frameworks towards equality, as well as the recognition of civil rights as a fundamental issue in the American ethos.