Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement in commemoration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and the National Day of Service, which honor the life and legacy of the civil rights leader:
“Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said that ‘life's most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’ Today, we honor his commitment to achieving equality and improving the lives of all Americans, while knowing that the struggle for equal rights is far from over.
“Even as we celebrate Dr. King’s message of peace, we must remain vigilant against new threats in the ongoing struggle to end prejudice and discrimination in our nation. Disparities in employment and wealth still persist among American communities of color, and millions continue to struggle with significant economic hardships.
“I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to address critical issues such as extending emergency unemployment benefits and addressing the devastating cuts recently made to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These programs serve as vital safety nets for American families and must be preserved.
“Today, and every day, let us continue to strive for a more prosperous future for all. Together, we can transform our nation into the one that Dr. King dreamed it could be.”
Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.
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