Governor Invites Hawaii to Join in 'Let Freedom Ring' 50th Anniversary Commemoration

Press Release

A half-century to the minute after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his historic "I Have a Dream" speech, Gov. Neil Abercrombie invites the people of Hawaii to "ring a bell" at 3 p.m. (HST) Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2013, as part of a worldwide 50th anniversary commemoration. The Governor also requests that places of worship, government buildings and all facilities in Hawaii with the capability join in this gesture.

The King Center and the 50th Anniversary Coalition called on governors of the 50 states and all people and organizations across the world to help culminate the 50th anniversary of The March on Washington and Dr. King's speech with "Let Freedom Ring" bell-ringing events.

"Half an ocean and a continent separate Hawaii from the National Mall, but we are no less impacted by Dr. King's remarkable words that day," Gov. Abercrombie said. "Here in the Aloha State, our diversity defines us and remains a source of great strength and beauty rivaling the natural wonder of these islands. However, we are reminded, even today, that prejudice and injustice persist. The fulfillment of Dr. King's legacy of hope, unity and freedom depends on our choices and actions beyond this single day of remembrance, extending to every day of our lives."

King Center CEO Bernice A. King stated: "We are calling on people across America and throughout the world to join with us as we pause to mark the 50th anniversary of my father's "I Have a Dream' speech with "Let Freedom Ring' bell-ringing events and programs that affirm the unity of people of all races, religions and nations. My father concluded his great speech with a call to "Let freedom ring,' and that is a challenge we will meet with a magnificent display of brotherhood and sisterhood in symbolic bell-ringing at places of worship, schools and other venues where bells are available from coast to coast and continent to continent."

For more information about the 50th anniversary commemoration, visit: www.mlkdream50.com

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