Hank's statement in recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

LITHONIA, GA – Rep. Hank Johnson released the following statement today in recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which will be observed on Monday, January 16th:

With the Oct. 16, 2011, dedication of the MLK Memorial on our National Mall in Washington, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. takes his rightful place in the pantheon of American heroes. The King Memorial, which stands between the Jefferson and Lincoln monuments, now occupies the same hallowed ground as those esteemed Presidents. It is the first and only monument on The Mall not created for a president or recognizing a war. It is a blessing that the champion of peace stands forever in our collective national memory.

As we gather Monday to honor the work of Dr. King and Mrs. Coretta Scott King, we pause to reflect on the struggle against prejudice, hatred and intolerance. May we not forget that Dr. King not only labored in the vineyard to ensure that people of different races were treated fairly -- he also toiled to ensure that the poor were respected and that workers of every creed and background were treated justly.

While we have made great progress, we know there is “A Mission Still to Fulfill.” Once again, we rededicate ourselves to keeping the dream alive and fostering peace and equality.

It is my distinct honor and I am humbled to serve on Monday as the Grand Marshal of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade in Stone Mountain. The parade has become a remarkable tradition in that small village made famous in the “I Have a Dream Speech.” As we go forth today, and because of Dr. King’s work and legacy, we can joyfully say, “Let Freedom Ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia” and throughout our nation and the world!

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