Statement of Governor McDonnell on Tomorrow's 50th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" Speech and the March on Washington

Statement

Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement ahead of tomorrow's 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have A Dream" speech and the March on Washington. Governor McDonnell also directed the ringing of the bells of the Old Bell Tower in Capitol Square in Richmond at 3pm tomorrow, which will coincide with similar occurrences at locations nationwide. He also encouraged other Virginia institutions to do the same.

"Tomorrow marks 50 years since Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke those four transcendent words: I have a dream. The 1963 March on Washington will forever be etched in the annals of this great nation as a pivotal moment in American history. Although there is much work still to be done, his message, that August day fifty years ago, a message of justice, equality, and reform, set the tone for generations of progress and healing. Today, Dr. King's words continue to inspire people across the world to pursue peace, fairness and the furtherance of human civil rights. Dr. King's vision and words, his strength of character and compassion, and his model for peaceful demonstration and dialogue have made America, and the world, a better and more just place. I urge all Virginians to pause tomorrow and remember Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the March on Washington, and the greatness of this wonderful nation that we call home."

Source