Remembering Dr. King as We Celebrate an Historic Inauguration
This is an historic year. We have so much to contemplate and consider as we reflect on the life and work of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The election of Barack Obama as the nation’s 44th president is the kind of rendezvous with destiny that Dr. King dreamed and worked for in his lifetime. It was a magic moment for our country and for the rest of the world.
The people of this nation made a special pick and at the same time made history. Now we must go beyond making history. Our nation is at one of the most important crossroads of our time and we must choose what our history will be.
I can assure you that this minute in Washington, my Senate colleagues and I are absolutely committed to change. We are working now to move the new administration into office swiftly and smoothly so we can roll up our sleeves and get the economy rolling again. We are committed to creating jobs for those who need them and helping those who have jobs keep them, to bringing our troops home safely and swiftly from Iraq, to strengthening our healthcare system, to making higher education accessible, and to public schools that families can depend on.
Under the gifted leadership of President-elect Barack Obama, we will restore the opportunity for every day people to achieve the American dream.
In his work and teachings, Dr. King embodied the principle that each and every one of us can make a difference, but together we can make change. I look forward to making change with you in the coming year as we bring a new voice and a new direction to America.