MLK was looking deeper than economics. He was looking out for rights BY LAW and the safety for black people. He merely used Christianity as an inside tool to communicate with black people in America. Economics is just one aspect of POWER.
Economic power is the most useful and valuable form of power black Americans can have. This is what allows you to build institutions, feed your people, be self sustaining, and resist gentrification.
Safety wasn't King's concern. He was anti self defense. Until his house got bombed and he applied for a firearm from the Sheriff. Which he was denied.
You really have to stop believing White's narration of MLK. During his existence he was more hated than beloved.