NOTE: The message below was telegraphed:

THE SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

March 19, 1960

Rev. C. K. Steele

803 Floral Street

Tallahassee, Florida

Dear Rev. Steele:

For eight jailed students. I have just learned of your courageous willingness to go to jail instead of paying fines for your righteous protest against segregated eating facilities. Through this decision you have again proven that there is nothing more majestic and sublime than the determined courage of individuals willing to suffer and sacrifice for the cause of freedom. You have discovered anew the meaning of the cross and as Christ died to make men holy, you are suffering to make men free.

As you suffer the inconvenience of remaining in jail, please remember that unearned suffering is redemptive. Going to jail for a righteous cause is a badge of honor and a symbol of dignity.

I assure you that your valiant witness is one of the glowing epics of our time and you are [bringing] all of America nearer the threshold of the [world's] bright tomorrows.

Signed: Martin Luther King, Jr.

President