January 16, 2006—Today, as many Americans enjoy a day off from work, Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02) urges all Americans to pause and honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood for the noble ideals of freedom and liberty when hope was all but lost for so many.  A hero of civil rights, he beckoned and inspired countless men and women to pursue a dream.  He was a crusader.  This is his legacy and one that shaped the lives of all Americans in a profound way.  May his dream of human equality for all be reaffirmed today in the hearts of all Americans.”

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) was a minister from Alabama who rose to national prominence for his championship of nonviolent advocacy for civil rights reform.  In November 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed into law a bill designating the third Monday in January as a national holiday to celebrate King’s life.  The holiday was first celebrated in January 1986. 

Trent Franks is the Congressman from the 2nd Congressional District of Arizona.  He is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, the House Judiciary Committee and Vice Chairman of the Constitution Subcommittee.