Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
As we pause to remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the holiday that marks his birthday and commemorates his life, we are reminded of the enduring impact he has had on all Americans and those committed to freedom, justice and equality.
We remember the hope, pride and compassion of a man whose fight for civil rights has become a cornerstone of American values and our way of life. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., exemplifies the power of the American Dream, a dream shared by many around the world. Freedom and equal opportunity are what makes us the most envied and admired country.
The 108th Congress, has worked towards achieving Dr. King's vision of opportunity for America. President Bush's No Child Left Behind Act calls for a higher standard of education for the nation's children. Congress also passed a bill that gives seniors better healthcare coverage by reforming Medicare. As the new year begins, I am leading a new urban initiative called "Saving America's Cities," which will examine issues facing America's urban areas and look for ways to promote economic growth and opportunity in cities and towns throughout the country.
Dr. King was a visionary leader whose words transcend generations and cross cultural barriers. He spoke of a time when people would "not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." More than 35 years after Dr. King's "Promised Land" speech, he would be pleased by the progress our nation has made but would urge us to continue the march toward the "Promised Land".
In a post 9/11 world, Dr. King's words "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere" have taken to heart as the world works toward the freedom and equality that Americans hold dear. Dr. King also taught us that "freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed," something we have seen throughout the world.
Dr. King's extraordinary faith lifted us to great heights. He spoke of human progress saying, "every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals." Those individuals who act unselfishly move the human race forward.
As the leader of the Civil Rights movement, Dr. King energized a nation and brought hope to many people. His words, the March on Washington, and various writings echo through our society and have become the conscience of America. We honor Dr. King, his life, and his legacy on this holiday.