Page 22 - MLK 2021 Booklet Clickable

January 18, 2021

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of Mid Michigan
P.O. Box 24112
Lansing, Michigan 48909

Dear Friends,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 36 Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day of
th
Celebration with keynote speaker, Dr. Bernice A. King commemorating her father’s life and
legacy. This year’s theme is ‘Out of a mountain of despair a stone of hope’. The lesson of hope
evident in Dr. King’s teachings is just as vital today as it was in Dr. King’s time.

Today, we battle the deadly COVID-19 virus that has disrupted our daily life and has
already taken the lives of friends, neighbors, and loved ones. The pandemic has also exposed
how we still have much to do in the struggle for justice and a higher quality of life for all. The
racial disparities and health inequities that this virus has exposed remind us that we must never
give up fighting so that everyone, no matter their situation, has quality, affordable health care
and opportunities to succeed.

To win the fight for freedom, equality, and justice in our country and around the world,
we must have faith and hope. Dr. King said: “Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see
the whole staircase, just take the first step.” As we address this pandemic and the social ills it
exposes, we must do so by taking that first step of faith.

Today’s guest speaker, Dr. Bernice A. King, heads the King Center, which is dedicated
to educating the world on the life, legacy, and teachings of her father, Dr. Martin Luther King,
Jr., with the hope of inspiring new generations to carry on his unfinished work. Dr. Bernice A.
King encourages new change-makers to commit to ensuring that America's greatest nonviolent
movement for justice, equality, and peace will continue well into the future.

On this special occasion of the 36 Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day of
th
Celebration, I trust we take to heart Dr. King’s message. I look forward to working with all who
commit to realizing Dr. King’s dream of a more just nation.

Sincerely,
M

Gary C. Peters
United States Senator

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