Hoyer Statement in Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement in commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, which occurs on Monday, January 19:

“On Monday, we will honor the life and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who inspired his fellow Americans with an impassioned call for justice and equality.  Though only thirty-nine years old when he was tragically taken from us, Dr. King’s legacy has forever changed our country and continues to inspire millions in America and across the world.

“As we prepare to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary this year of the Selma marches and passage of the Voting Rights Act, we celebrate Dr. King’s legacy and rededicate ourselves to the fight for justice and opportunity that he led.  Much progress has been made over the past fifty years toward the fulfillment of Dr. King’s dream, but more work remains until every American’s right to vote is protected and all who seek jobs and opportunities can find them.   Congress must move forward with a bipartisan effort to restore the full protections of the Voting Rights Act, which was weakened by the Supreme Court’s Shelby v Holder decision, and we must work together to spur job creation and expand access to opportunities that open doors to the middle class.  

“By following Dr. King’s example of compassion and perseverance, we can help make his vision a reality and ensure that all of our people can achieve the American Dream.”