Congresswoman Waters Celebrates the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Last Sunday, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) gave a potent address honoring the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during a multi-faith event in Los Angeles, hosted by the Second Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor William Epps and the Political Clergy Council, led by Minister Tonette Henry. The event, entitled "A Tribute to a King," also featured California Attorney General Kamala Harris.

Congresswoman Waters noted quotes by Dr. King emphasizing the importance of education and its relevance today. She voiced her concerns about the District 1 vacant seat on the Los Angeles Unified School District Board following the death of longtime member, Marguerite LaMotte, and the fact that the board did not utilize an opportunity to appoint an experienced and committed educator, Dr. George McKenna, to replace her. The students of District 1 will remain without representation until a special election is held on June 3rd, and longer if a runoff election becomes necessary.

"Marguerite was an educator, who had experience in the classroom and as a principal. Marguerite fought for all of us, even at times when we were not with her," said Congresswoman Waters. "We must refocus ourselves on education and support the individual chosen to represent the children in our community."

Congresswoman Waters went on to remind the audience about how Dr. King inspired everyone to seek educational opportunities as a means to allowing the next generation to reach its full potential, ensuring the long-term success of our nation's economy and people. Attorney General Kamala Harris also discussed education and its importance in preventing incarceration as a part of her remarks.

"Fifty years ago this month, President Lyndon B. Johnson declared a War on Poverty and introduced initiatives in the hope of improving education and access to employment and economic opportunities, but there is still much work to be done," added Congresswoman Waters. "Economic inequality and the racial wealth gap remain in place as barriers to progress. Dr. King envisioned a better nation where equality would be a reality. His vision and dream are still alive today, and we must work to ensure that equality and equal access to opportunity are available for all."

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