Protester Accompanying Martin Luther King in DC's Historic March Continues Advocacy for Equality as a Clergyman Today
Fr. Ray Kemp: A Lifelong Advocate for Social Justice in Washington, DC
Fr. Ray Kemp, a lifelong resident of Washington, DC, has dedicated his life to promoting social justice and fostering community relationships. His journey began in the nation's capital during World War II, where he grew up in a rowhome in Northwest DC.
Kemp's mother, who studied business law at Catholic University, became a civil servant in the Federal Maritime Commission. His father worked on the railroad yard, now known as Union Station, as a teenager after his father died.
Fr. Kemp's passion for social justice was ignited in the 1960s. He developed a friendship with the late Rep. John Lewis and worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King during the planning of the Poor People's Campaign. Kemp attended the March on Washington in August 1963, where he witnessed Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous speech. He also experienced the night of Martin Luther King's assassination in April 1968, which had a profound impact on him.
In 1966, Kemp first became involved in social justice work, working with an activist priest on urban affairs and related issues. He believes that community organizing is crucial for understanding and connecting with people who may be different from oneself.
Fr. Kemp's career in the Archdiocese of Washington began with his first assignment at a Black Catholic parish at 15th and V. He has been a priest for over three decades and has been at Georgetown University since 1992, where he has served as the Special Assistant to the President for Community Engagement and as an adjunct theology professor.
At Georgetown, Kemp brings his passion for social justice to life. He runs programs such as the Community Scholars Program and the Georgetown Scholars Program, which aim to nurture students' curiosity about social issues and empower them to take action in their communities. His approach emphasizes the dignity of every individual, regardless of their social status, and encourages bridges between people across differing walks of life.
In addition to his work at Georgetown, Fr. Kemp plays a vital role in aligning the university's mission with its Jesuit values, focusing on service and social justice. This includes participating in the university’s efforts to engage with its historical legacy, including its past ties to slavery, and pushing for institutional self-reflection and reparative action in partnership with the DC community.
Outside of his work, Fr. Kemp enjoys birdwatching and advocating for accessibility, particularly through tandem cycling. He finds Georgetown students to be eager to learn and curious about the workings of politics, government, and international relationships.
In sum, Fr. Ray Kemp combines leadership, teaching, mentorship, and community organizing to advance social justice at Georgetown and in Washington, DC, acting as a key figure in fostering dialogue, action, and institutional accountability rooted in Catholic and Jesuit principles.
- Fr. Ray Kemp's mother had a degree in business law from a university, emphasizing the importance of education in his life.
- Kemp has been involved in various fields like fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and shopping, reflecting his interest in lifestyle.
- In business-development, he believes that understanding relationships is crucial, echoing his approach to community organizing.
- Fr. Kemp advocates for the inclusion of pets in one's lifestyle, promoting their role in personal growth.
- His travel experiences, including the March on Washington, have significantly shaped his views on social justice.
- Fr. Kemp's work and life objectives align with career-development, as he strives to empower others.
- He enjoys sports, particularly basketball, which mirrors the competitive spirit in his community engagement efforts.
- Fr. Kemp's career intertwines with sports-analysis, as he assesses and adapts his strategies based on community feedback.
- The Nation's Capital has not only been his home-and-garden but also a platform for his lifetime crusade for social justice.
- He encourages students to reflect on their personal-growth and self-development by engaging with relationships, politics, and international affairs.
