WHEREAS, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream of expanding equality and justice for all helped advance our nation and redirect the conversation about race for generations of Americans; and
WHEREAS, born during a time of heightened racial discrimination and oppression in the nation, he excelled in his studies, obtained his doctorate in theology, and served throughout his lifetime as a pastor and peaceful activist; and
WHEREAS, Dr. King’s natural leadership and orator skills made him a commanding voice for America’s civil rights movement as he brought to light the needs of the poor and championed nonviolence as an effective means to bring forth positive social change; and
WHEREAS, working alongside people of all ages, races, and backgrounds, Dr. King encouraged Americans to come together to strengthen communities and empower the impoverished. From his example, Americans learned the values of courage, truth, justice, compassion, and service; and
WHEREAS, Dr. King’s efforts were instrumental in strengthening the belief that a person’s worth should not be measured by the color of their skin, but by their character – encouraging Americans to honor all persons, look beyond their differences, and come together for the common good; and
WHEREAS, he dedicated his life to empowering people, no matter their circumstances, and challenged them to lift-up their neighbors and communities until our nation fulfilled its pledge of liberty and justice for all; and
WHEREAS, although great progress has been made, more work remains to fully eliminate prejudice and injustice throughout our country. In the words of Dr. King, “we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim January 16, 2023 as:
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to reflect on and to reaffirm their commitment to Dr. King’s vision of equality, human rights, and dignity for all individuals.
