Larson Pays Tribute to the Late Dr. King

IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 18, 2008

Contact:Emily Barocas/202-225-7295/202-593-1377

LARSON PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE LATE DR. KING

Washington, D.C.-- Today Congressman John B. LarsonCT-01, Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, released the followingstatement in honor of the Rev. MartinLuther King Jr.'s 79th birthday, which the nation will observe on Monday:

"As the nation pauseson Monday to honor the late Martin Luther King, Jr., we should reflect on how hededicated his life to making this nation a more tolerant place. Weremember his critical role in the Civil Right's Movement-the Montgomery BusBoycott, his involvement in the formation of the Southern Christian LeadershipConference, his arrest in Birmingham, the March on Washington, his outspokenstance on the war in Vietnam-a collection of heroic acts that forged change inthis great nation."

"Reverend Dr. MartinLuther King Jr. fought tirelessly throughout his life against injustices notonly towards African Americans, but towards all members of society, in order topromote community amongst our citizens"

"As we remember thatlegacy, it is important to recognize that the work of Dr. King is not complete. He dedicated his life to serving others and humanity. He believed innonviolence. He believed in the greater good of mankind. What wouldDr. King say about the violence plaguing cities across the country, like Hartford, in my home state of Connecticut? Our children are growing up in war zones. Families are beingdevastated and a generation is being lost."

"This year on MartinLuther King Day, we should all remember Dr. King and his message of nonviolence. This year, let us bring his message of compassion and nonviolence to our citystreets."