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(Washington,
D.C.) - Congressman Tim Ryan (D-Niles)
released the following statement today in recognition of Martin Luther King
Day, which is celebrated on Monday, January 15th:
"As our nation celebrates
Martin Luther King Day, we are called to remember and honor Dr. King's triumphs
and sacrifices. At a time when African-Americans were silenced by gross
injustice, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. provided a powerful voice for equality.
Through the example of his leadership, he gave all Americans the courage to
work together peacefully for change.
"Dr. King believed that our government had a responsibility
to meet the needs of ordinary families.
But now, on what would have been his 78th birthday, America's
broken health care system, growing economic inequality, and lingering social
injustice show that we have a long way to go before realizing Dr. King's
extraordinary vision.
"I remain hopeful, however, that we are bringing Dr. King's
dream closer to reality. Last week, the Democratic House of Representatives passed
a measure that will help nearly 13 million American workers and their families
by raising the minimum wage. We followed that achievement by passing a bill to
help reduce prescription drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries, and, this week,
Democrats in Congress will move to cut the cost of college for approximately
5.5 million low- and middle-income undergraduates and their families.
"So on Martin Luther King Day, and every day, let us honor
Dr. King's legacy by recommitting ourselves to his dream for America."
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