Remembering the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Dear Friends,

Today we remember and honor the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a relentless advocate for peace, the practice of nonviolent protest and the grassroots organizing of working class and poor people. Dr. King has taught us that every challenge is always an opportunity to do what is right. His work has helped to elevate the voices of African Americans and those whose voices have been silenced in this country.

Dr. King taught us a responsibility to speak out against injustice wherever we see it. He reminded us that “our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." As we navigate these unprecedented times, Dr, King’s words now seem to have become more prophetic than ever. Our nation is divided as we are still witnessing the oppression of racism and white supremacy in action.

Dr. King and the countless advocates that he inspired believed that this country could overcome racism and economic injustice, and we owe it to them to continue to pursue justice. This is a moment to reflect on what more we can do to continue to live our lives in a way that would make Dr. King proud.

Sincerely,

NYS Senator Julia Salazar