January 17, 2010

Washington, D.C.—Nevada Senator Harry Reid released the following statement today in recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  Tomorrow, America observes Dr. King’s birthday:

“Few figures in the history of our country have as lasting an impact as Dr. King has with his message of peace and equality.  He taught America that we must listen to and understand each other if we are to grow as a nation.

“We still ache from that terrible day in 1968 when Dr. King was taken from us much too soon.  By building a stronger, fairer nation together, we celebrate his legacy and validate the greatness of an America that Dr. King believed in and worked to change. 

“This week marks the first Martin Luther King Day our country celebrates with America’s first African-American President.  I can only imagine how President Obama’s journey to the Presidency and the grace and dignity with which he has led our nation would warm Dr. King’s heart. 

“We still have much work to do to realize his dream.  I hope that all Americans will take a moment this week to reflect on Dr. King’s words and work, and will strive toward the more perfect union that he knew we could become.”