Pelosi Statement on 55th Anniversary of the March on Washington

Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616

San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the 55th anniversary of the March on Washington, led by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on August 28, 1963:

"Fifty-five years ago, at the historic March on Washington, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. shared his dream with the world, igniting the energy and activism of a generation to meet the ‘fierce urgency of now.' Americans across the country heard his clarion call to action, and over decades of tireless advocacy achieved extraordinary progress to move our nation forward. But our journey toward justice is far from complete, and much of Dr. King's vision and dream remain to be achieved.

"Today, we continue to fight insidious attacks against our nation's values of equality, freedom and justice for all. Americans, particularly communities of color and hard-working families, face dire threats to their right to quality, affordable health care, an equitable education, access to the ballot box and equal justice under the law. These relentless, cynical assaults undermine our hard-won progress, and compel us, in the words of Dr. King, to continue to fight ‘to make real the promise of democracy.'

"From the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963 to city streets and town squares across America today, the words of Dr. King ring clear and true. The urgency of this moment reminds us all that it is incumbent upon each generation of proud Americans to renew our commitment to build a more perfect union. Democrats understand this sacred duty and are committed to fighting For The People as we work to drive progress that empowers all Americans, and ensures that our country remains a beacon of hope, opportunity and freedom for all."

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