Why did Ella Baker work with Martin Luther King Jr?

Ella Baker worked with Martin Luther King Jr. because she believed in grassroots organizing and empowering local communities, which aligned with King's vision for the Civil Rights Movement. As a seasoned activist and leader, she played a pivotal role in the formation of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), where she encouraged King and other leaders to prioritize the voices and experiences of ordinary people. Baker's approach emphasized collective action and was instrumental in shaping the movement's strategies and goals. Her collaboration with King reflected a shared commitment to achieving racial equality and social justice in America.