AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage today issued the following statement honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and recognizing Martin Luther King, Jr. Day:
“On this day our state and nation remembers the life and work of a man who dedicated his life to ensure civil rights for all Americans. We honor Dr. King for his quest for equality through civil disobedience and non-violent means.
Equality of opportunity is the essence of the American dream, and America decided to make people more equal by providing them educational options. As Dr. King once said, “Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” As it did then, this message rings true today, and all of our children should have the opportunity to achieve the American dream.”
Governor LePage has proclaimed Monday, January 21 as Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service.
Proclamation language is as follows:
WHEREAS, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. devoted his life to advancing equality, social justice and opportunity for all, and challenged all Americans to participate in the never-ending work of building a more perfect union; and
WHEREAS, Dr. King’s teachings can continue to guide and inspire us in addressing challenges in our communities; and
WHEREAS, the King Holiday and Service Act, enacted in 1994, designated the King Holiday as a national day of volunteer service and charged the Corporation for National and Community Services with leading the effort that has inspired millions of Americans to serve their neighbors and communities on the King Holiday; and
WHEREAS, serving on the King Holiday is an appropriate way to honor Dr. King, meet local and national needs, bring our citizens together, and strengthen our communities and nation; and
WHEREAS, the King Day of Service is the only federal holiday commemorated as a national day of service, and offers an opportunity for Americans to give back to their communities on the holiday and make an ongoing commitment to service throughout the year; and
WHEREAS, King Day of Service projects are being organized by a wide range of non-profits in the State of Maine.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, PAUL R. LEPAGE, Governor of the State of Maine, proclaim January 21, 2013, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday as
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service
throughout the State of Maine, and call upon the people of Maine to pay tribute to the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through participation in community service projects on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and throughout the year.