Dream. A Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Stele

What does the word “dream” mean to you? Here at the Dream. A Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Stele, that word takes on a powerful, tangible form. Five bronze hands rise from their steel pedestals, spelling out D-R-E-A-M in American Sign Language. This striking sculpture, created by Roberto Salas in 2001, is more than just art. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of Dr. King. The Dream. A Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Stele is located along the Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade, close to the New Children’s Museum. This promenade, a vibrant stretch along Harbor Drive, is a place where Dr. King’s words are literally enshrined in the walkway. You can stroll along the promenade, taking in the beauty of the waterfront as you reflect on his powerful messages. The Dream. A Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Stele is just one of several works along the promenade honoring Dr. King. You’ll also find pieces like “Breaking of the Chains” and “Shedding the Cloak,” adding to the rich tapestry of art and remembrance. These sculptures aren’t just static objects. They are a conversation, a silent dialogue between the past and the present. They call on us to remember Dr. King’s dream, to reflect on how far we’ve come, and how far we still have to go. They invite us to dream our own dreams of a better, more just future. As you stand here at the Dream. A Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Stele, let the power of these bronze hands inspire you. Let them remind you that dreams, when expressed with conviction and courage, can change the world.