U.S. Senator Ben Cardin:
U.S. Senator Ben Cardin issued the following statement in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, which is commemorated on Monday, January 20, 2014:
“The birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., became a national holiday more than 25 years ago so that our nation – and future generations – would understand and appreciate the legacy of Dr. King’s many accomplishments.
“On this day, we celebrate the birthday of a true national hero and trailblazer. Much has changed in the 85 years since Martin Luther King Jr. was born; this country has made great strides thanks to Dr. King and the millions of Americans who were inspired by his message. However, inequality and injustice still exist in many forms. Thankfully, then and now, there are good people willing to stand up against hate and bigotry.
“Though today [Jan. 20] is a national holiday, it is hardly a day of rest. Dr. King once said, ‘Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable… Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.’
Charles Lollar Gubernatorial Candidate:
Today, we reflect on the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As part of our celebrating his remarkable contributions that went far beyond our borders, I encourage all of us to come together as a community despite our differences and remember that first and foremost we are Americans, not hyphenated in ways that divide us, but simply Americans. Although we all come from different walks whether it be political, gender, ethnic, religious, etc, we must remember that we are a united country and community. Dr. King embodied a spirit of unity and compassion. His message of unity and his hope for an America where everyone can achieve their dream must not be lost. We must consciously embrace our fellow Americans as our brothers and sisters. We must not forego his message of peace – and help others that are in need.
Dr. King’s life was cut way too short. We must celebrate his enduring spirit, impassioned commitment and vision for an America that provides opportunity for all citizens to pursue their dreams and live peacefully. Dr. King and his unwavering legacy should remind us that first and foremost, we are all connected as Americans and should be kind to our neighbors. In recognition of his life I encourage you to join me in taking time out of your schedule to help a neighbor, volunteer at a food bank, find a charitable cause and volunteer. Let us celebrate the wonderful life and legacy of Dr. King everyday of the year.
Attorney General Doug Gansler and Delegate Jolene Ivey:
“Just over 50 years ago, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., gave his powerful speech to millions gathered on the National Mall during the March on Washington. Today, we remember the legacy of a leader who lamented that African-Americans live ‘on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity.’ That was in 1963, but far too much of that description rings true in our state in 2014.
“Just a few miles from some of the richest neighborhoods in Maryland, parents struggle to pay their bills and put food on the table for their kids. Our state
