New York State Executive Chamber | Governor Eliot Spitzer

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Proclamation

Whereas, each January, New Yorkers and all Americans join together to honor the birthday of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and this year marks a particularly bittersweet milestone as we not only remember the 79th anniversary of his birth, but solemnly commemorate the 40th anniversary of that tragic day on which Dr. King's life was taken, and this is a fitting opportunity to reflect upon some of the most important principles that Dr. King fought for - those of liberty, peace, equality and justice for all; and

Whereas, born on January 15, 1929, Dr. King was dedicated to achieving his vision of civil rights for all people, and his voice and words were heard by millions across our great nation, illustrating a commitment to human dignity and a determination to follow a course of social change through nonviolent means; and

Whereas, also at the heart of Dr. King's philosophy was the concept of community service, and the Empire State strives to maintain this philosophy through various philanthropic efforts - including statewide food drives, blood drives, as well as an extensive volunteer program - all of which encourage New Yorkers to observe the King Holiday by honoring his life and legacy through the continuation of his good work; and

Whereas, this year, as we remember with lingering sadness the 40th anniversary of Dr. King's death, we pause to thankfully remember the accomplishments of Martin Luther King Jr., and note that in the years since his assassination, the King Holiday has become especially important in inspiring others to join in service to their community and to all of mankind in accordance with the hopes, dreams and intentions of Dr. King and the ideals of peace and nonviolence that he championed and upon which he built his life; and

Whereas, let us remember that in moving forward together as one people, we must all share the common principles of love, tolerance, forgiveness and reconciliation, rooted in the words and actions of Dr. King and recommit ourselves to efforts that positively reinforce community service for the betterment of society and all humankind;

Now, Therefore, I, Eliot Spitzer, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim January 21, 2008 as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in the Empire State.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this third day of January in the year two thousand eight.

Eliot Spitzer, Governor

Richard Baum, Secretary to the Governor