Statement from U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan on Martin Luther King Jr. Day
"A little over 50 years ago, our nation engaged in a loud, sometimes deadly and tumultuous discussion about civil rights. From coast to coast, Americans of all backgrounds and creeds stood together and demanded more from each other and our country. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was among the leaders of the day who relentlessly fought for equality in the face of monumental adversity and resistance.
"Time and time again, Dr. King led by example and challenged all of us to be our brother's keeper, fighting the loudest for those with the weakest voices. As we recognize Dr. King's birthday and his countless contributions to our world, we must remember that his fight for equality is not over. Too many students don't have equal access to a high quality education, too many families are finding college simply too expensive to pursue, and not enough of our nation's teachers reflect the diversity of this great country.
"We should honor Dr. King's legacy by continuing to fight for equity in our world and in education—along with serving others. His day of remembrance is an opportunity to take part in a meaningful community service project that will have a lasting impact on your community. Despite our varied experiences, we are all in this together and have a shared responsibility to help the most vulnerable among us—just as Dr. King did."ANUARY 17, 2014
