Klobuchar Statement on Martin Luther King Jr. Day

KLOBUCHAR: "In times of strife, he did not give up hope, and he did not back down."

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) today issued the following statement commemorating Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.:

"Today as we remember Dr. King, we celebrate his passion and perseverance. Dr. King understood better than anyone that the path to progress is neither short nor without obstacles. Still, he pursued justice every day of his life, recognizing that 'Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle.'

"Last week, I had the privilege of meeting with Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King. As we discussed efforts to protect our most fundamental right - the right to vote - I was again reminded of this powerful message. Dr. King devoted his life to ensuring that all Americans, no matter their race, were able to make their voices heard at the ballot box. He stared down violence time and time again and instead fought for our democracy with words and wisdom. In times of strife, he did not give up hope, and he did not back down.

"As we observe this holiday, let us honor Dr. King's legacy by ensuring our actions live up to our words. We will keep moving forward as one nation, channeling Dr. King's spirit of love and light as we fight to protect the ideals of democracy on which our country was built. And when challenges arise, as they most certainly will, we will think of his teachings and carry on, just as he would have."

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