The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) President & CEO David A. Hinson released the following statement in recognition of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday:

“Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. lived and died fighting for the advancement of the black community. His steadfast commitment to achieving social and economic equality not only inspired generations to continue toward this goal, but Dr. King also served as a mentor, supporter and friend of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) founders.

‘You are demonstrating that we can stick together. You are demonstrating that we are all tied in a single garment of destiny,’ King told a group of civil rights leaders in March 1968, a few weeks before his assassination.

“CBC founders, including the late Congressman John Conyers, the longest serving African American legislator in congressional history, resolved to preserve King’s work and legacy. Within weeks of his death, Congressman Conyers introduced legislation to make Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday a national holiday. Some 15 years later in 1983, the measure was passed by both chambers of Congress and signed into law.

Rep. John Conyers describes the foundation of the Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.

In the presence of Coretta Scott King (2nd from left), President Ronald Reagan signs a bill making Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday a national holiday.

“In honoring Dr. King, we also honor the efforts of the members of the Congressional Black Caucus who work tirelessly each day to represent Dr. King’s vision of honesty, integrity and fairness to the more than 80 million people across the United States whom they represent.

“I encourage you to take time today to reflect on the significance of this holiday and the legacy of Dr. King. I also challenge you to ask yourself, ‘how will my actions today and tomorrow advance the black community in America and around the world?’ In the words of Dr. King, ‘The job ahead must be massive and positive.’ We must all contribute to our collective success.”

ABOUT CBCF

Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org.