On this solemn and important day, the OPCMIA joins all Americans in honoring the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
He was an unparalleled moral force for racial, social and economic justice who spearheaded profound, positive, lasting change. It is up to all of us to carry his mission forward, especially in this moment when racism threatens the very fabric of our democracy.
There could be no better way to honor Dr. King’s legacy in 2022 than for the Senate to pass the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act. Over the past year, 19 states have enacted 34 laws designed to suppress the vote. The Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act will repeal these laws imposing Jim Crow-style impediments to voting that Dr. King played a key role in dismantling nearly 60 years ago.
As President Biden said last week:
The next few days, when these bills come to a vote, will mark a turning point in this nation’s history.
Will we choose democracy over autocracy, light over shadows, justice over injustice? …
At consequential moments in history, they present a choice: Do you want to be on the side of Dr. King or George Wallace? Do you want to be on the side of John Lewis or Bull Connor? Do you want to be on the side of Abraham Lincoln or Jefferson Davis?
When it comes to honoring Dr. King’s legacy, actions speak louder than words. Every member of the U.S. Senate should act to uphold his achievements by ending that segregationist relic known as the filibuster and passing the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act.
In 2022, let’s make this the most meaningful Martin Luther King Day yet.
Daniel E. Stepano
General President
