Memphis, TN –  Today marks a sad day with an important purpose – to remember a remarkable man whose legacy inspired Americans of all nationalities and backgrounds to demand better of their government, communities, and fellow citizens.

 So much has changed in the world over the past forty years. We have grown as a nation, learning to accept and appreciate our differences for what they can bring to strengthen our communities. But today – on the 40th anniversary of the assassination of the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr – I am reminded of his call for change, his demands for a better community, and am humbled by the sacrifices that were made for me and my generation.

 Dr. King's tireless efforts to improve this great country must be continued. It seems that many politicians have forgotten what it means to be a public servant, and I hope to remind them as your next member of Congress. We have real problems right here in Memphis – rising crime rates, dropping graduation rates – and we need leaders who will strive to make government work for the people. We need to inspire the next generation of leadership and activism to ensure that we keep dreaming and keep improving.

 The assassination of Dr. King happened right here in our backyard, and although it's clear to see how far we have come since that tragic day, we still have a lot of work to do in order to fulfill his vision of a better America.  We need to remember to keep growing as a nation, and embrace the real chance we have to bring this community together, to reject hatred and prejudice and the divisions that keep everyone from moving forward. While we pause to remember this great man today, I call on all of our friends and neighbors to renew their commitment to fulfilling Dr. King's dream. 

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