Surviving Indian Creek School » MLK Day 2025: Honoring the Fight for Justice and Reflecting on Modern-Day Injustice

On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we are called to reflect on the enduring truth of Dr. King's words: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” These words remind us that the struggle for justice is not confined to a single era or a single issue—it is a fight that continues today in many forms, including the ongoing battle against retaliation and systemic discrimination.

The Hemphills' case against Indian Creek School (ICS) exemplifies the challenges faced by those who dare to exercise their constitutional rights in the face of entrenched power structures. In 2024, after the Hemphills sued Indian Creek School for wrongdoing, the school retaliated by expelling their son, Evan, and terminating Eric’s employment. These actions are a stark reminder that the tools of retaliation and suppression—tools that echo the shameful tactics of the Jim Crow era—persist in modern institutions. Dr. King, who dedicated his life to dismantling systems of oppression, would undoubtedly be outraged by these acts of injustice.

Retaliation: A Modern-Day Barrier to Equality

Retaliation against individuals who stand up for their rights is a chilling tactic meant to silence dissent and preserve power. The Hemphills are not alone in their experience. Consider the case of Mr. Michael Tasker, who filed for workers' compensation only to have his contract with Indian Creek School not renewed. These acts send a dangerous message to employees, students, and families: that seeking justice and fairness comes at the cost of your livelihood and stability.

Such tactics are deeply unjust and fundamentally un-American. Retaliation undermines the principles of due process and fairness, principles enshrined in the Constitution and fought for by civil rights leaders like Dr. King. For minorities and other marginalized groups, the fear of retaliation often silences them before they can even begin to fight.

The Role of Federal Investigations

The ongoing parallel federal investigation into Indian Creek School represents a critical turning point. The federal government has the power to uncover the full scope of lies, deceit, and misconduct that might otherwise remain hidden. As discovery progresses in the Hemphills' case, their access to student, employee, and business records will reveal whether a pattern of unethical and retaliatory practices exists.

The Hemphills have made it clear that they are committed to justice, not just for themselves but for everyone affected by Indian Creek School’s actions. They have vowed to see the truth brought to light and to hold those responsible accountable—even if that means jail time for those who continue to perpetuate lies and cover up wrongdoing.

Honoring Those Who Take a Stand

On this MLK Day, let us honor the courage of those who take a stand for justice, even when the cost is high. The Hemphills, like so many others throughout history, have risked everything to fight against injustice. They embody the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy: refusing to remain silent in the face of oppression and working tirelessly to expose wrongdoing, no matter the obstacles.

Dr. King once said, The time is always right to do what is right.” As we reflect on his words, let us also remember that the fight for justice is far from over. Retaliation, discrimination, and deceit have no place in our schools, workplaces, or communities.

Let today be a call to action. Let us stand with the Hemphills and all others who seek justice, and let us commit ourselves to creating a world where “justice everywhere” is not just a dream, but a reality.

This MLK Day, let us remember: the arc of the moral universe bends toward justice—but only if we are willing to fight for it.