In Celebration Of The Life And Work Of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Floor Speech

* Mr. MARSHALL. Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise today to honor one of Georgia's greatest citizens, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and to recognize the efforts of the Martin Luther King, Jr., Banquet Committee, the North Georgia Building and Construction Trades Council, and the Central Georgia Federation of Trades and Labor Council. It is on this 22nd Annual Martin Luther King, Jr., Banquet and Awards Ceremony that we all pause to remember Dr. King's life and legacy and to reflect on what a profoundly positive impact he has had on each and every one of us. Dr. King's impact was not limited to the South or even to the United States. His nonviolent struggle for the equality of all people enriched our entire globe, a fact acknowledged by his receipt of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.

* Dr. King's message throughout the struggle of the Civil Rights movement was clear and simple. All people should be equal before the law and all should have the opportunity to make the most out of their lives in a free and democratic society. Dr. King contributed enormously to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a landmark in the struggle for racial equality. Unfortunately, that struggle continues today, almost 42 years after Dr. King was murdered by an assassin. Our nation's annual celebration of Dr. King's birth reminds us that we have more to do to assure the equality of all people before the law.

* Madam Speaker, the work of the North Georgia Building and Construction Trades Council and the Central Georgia Federation of Trades and Labor Council continues the work begun by Dr. King. Their efforts for Georgians in gaining meaningful and quality employment in the construction industry deserve our thanks. Their endeavors are in keeping with Dr. King's simple message that all deserve the chance to succeed and I again wish to congratulate them on all the outstanding work they do for all Georgians and for the important work they do to honor Dr. Martin Luther King's legacy.

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