In this excerpt, the word tension means discomfort. Dr. King is saying that a certain level of discomfort is necessary for growth as a country. The group(s) that have been oppressing the black community are to expect nothing short of discomfort. Facing difficult emotions is the only way that we, as a community, can make any sort of change.
the midday meal: merienda de mediodía
mexicans with a blend of indigenous and spanish heritage:mestizo
a style of traditional mexican music: mariachi
mesoamerican version of corn: maize
