Congresswoman McCollum's Statement on Martin Luther King Day

This weekend, we will take time to remember the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. As one of our country’s greatest organizers, leaders and advocates for social justice, King dedicated his life to fighting for equality and opportunity for all Americans.

As we remember Dr. King’s legacy, we must also continue to pursue his vision. We continue to see disparities in the incomes, health outcomes and educational attainment of people in this country based on their race and economic status. Fifty years since President Johnson declared the War on Poverty, we are still fighting to address the root causes of poverty in America. These causes are directly linked to the work of Dr. King.

The unwavering resolve with which Dr. King fought for change should be an inspiration to us all. He once said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere…whatever affects us directly, affects all indirectly.” These words should serve to guide all of us who work towards justice and equality.