In observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, DNC Chair Jaime Harrison and DNC Black Caucus Chair Virgie M. Rollins released the following statement:

“Today we commemorate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose legacy and commitment to civil rights, equality, and direct action helped lead America to a more perfect union. Dr. King was dedicated to nonviolence as the vehicle for achieving the ‘beloved community,’ a place free from segregation and discrimination. While we have made great strides towards a more just society, our freedoms, our democracy, and our progress as a nation are once again on the line and under threat by those who seek to roll back the clock on our freedoms. 

“It was Dr. King who said, “we will have to repent in this generation not merely for the hateful words and actions of the bad people but for the appalling silence of the good people.” 60 years later, these words remain true; it is time for our generation to stand up and fight for the future of our country – because our freedoms and our democracy depend on it. 

“Inspired by Dr. King’s legacy, we will continue marching towards an America defined by freedom and justice for all.”