VIDEO: Senator Peters Commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released a video message to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day ahead of the holiday on Monday, January 19th, 2026:
“Dr. King’s commitment to civil rights and nonviolent protest forever changed our nation. His life exemplified the founding principles of our Constitution and Declaration of Independence, that ‘all men are created equal,’” said Senator Peters. “He helped move this country forward to a future where all Americans are afforded equal opportunity, rights, and dignity, no matter their race, gender, economic background, or sexual orientation.”
Peters continued, “So, together, let’s continue to stand against racism and injustice everywhere, and make sure that Dr. King’s legacy lives on for generations to come.”
To watch video of Senator Peters’ remarks, click here.
Below is the text of Senator Peters’ remarks as delivered:
“This year marks the 40th anniversary of the first federal celebration of Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
“Nearly 60 years since Dr. King’s assassination in 1968, we come together once again to recognize his legacy and his vision for a more just, equal future.
“Dr. King’s commitment to civil rights and nonviolent protest forever changed our nation. His life exemplified the founding principles of our Constitution and Declaration of Independence, that ‘all men are created equal.’
“He helped move this country forward to a future where all Americans were afforded equal opportunity, rights, and dignity, no matter their race, gender, economic background, or sexual orientation.
“However, as we have seen over the past year, many of the ideals that Dr. King advocated for are basically under siege across the country and it can often feel like we’re going backwards.
“But the path to equality has always been met with obstacles and resistance. So, just as Dr. King taught us, we must not surrender in this righteous pursuit.
“In 1965, after leading the 5-day, 54-mile march from Selma to Montgomery, it was Dr. King who said from the steps of the Alabama State Capitol: ‘the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.’
“So, together, let’s continue to stand against racism and injustice everywhere, and make sure that Dr. King’s legacy lives on for generations to come.”
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