King Family Wants MLK Files to Remain Sealed

June 10, 2025

Judge Richard Leon is proceeding cautiously regarding the potential public release of classified documents related to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. , indicating it will be a "long journey" likely involving the King family. The Trump administration's Department of Justice is requesting an early end to a sealing order on these records, claiming they only seek documents related to King's assassination.

Who is affected

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s family
The Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC)
The National Archives
Researchers and the general public interested in historical documents
The Department of Justice under the Trump administration

What action is being taken

Judge Richard Leon is reviewing the case and proceeding cautiously with "little steps"
Judge Leon is requesting the National Archives compile an inventory of King's records for his review
The Department of Justice is asking to end a sealing order on King-related records
The SCLC and King's family are opposing the early release of documents from 1963-1968

Why it matters

The records contain potentially sensitive classified information related to Dr. King
The documents could provide historical insights into King's assassination
The case involves balancing public interest in historical transparency against privacy concerns
It represents ongoing implementation of Executive Order 14176 regarding declassification of assassination records
The release timing (two years earlier than scheduled) is contested by those close to Dr. King

What's next

Judge Leon will review the inventory of King's records once compiled by the National Archives
The judge will likely consult with the King family as part of the process
Additional records related to the Kennedy assassinations are expected to be released as they are digitized

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint