Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement in commemoration of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day:

“Each year, we pause on this day to reflect on the incredible legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who dedicated his life to preaching non-violent resistance as the path to overcome prejudice, racism, and hatred.

“Fifty-seven years after Dr. King’s powerful “I Have A Dream” speech, we still have much work ahead to achieve full racial, economic, and social equality. As we witness the undeniable surge in hate crimes, a rise in white nationalist rhetoric, and ongoing attacks by the Trump administration against programs that benefit communities of color – from SNAP to affordable housing – it is clear that now, more than ever, is the time to revisit Dr. King’s timeless wisdom.

“As Dr. King once said, "To ignore evil is to become accomplice to it." Let us reaffirm Dr. King’s dream as a guiding vision for each one of us to come together, in the spirit of equality, towards the goal of making our country a more tolerant and just place for all Americans.”

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Vice-Chairman of the House Rules Committee, Chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.

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