Senator Murray’s Statement on the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement on the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington: 

“Fifty years ago today, hundreds of thousands of Americans – of all backgrounds – flooded our nation’s capital to stand up and speak out on the social and economic injustices plaguing our country. On that sweltering August afternoon, we heard a minister from Montgomery reveal a dream that would inspire change for decades to come. While we come together today to celebrate that historic moment and reflect upon the progress our country has made, the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. demands that we not rest on our laurels, but continue his march toward justice. From Seattle to Selma, and everywhere in between, we are reminded the fight for equality is far from over. 

“The right to vote is at the foundation of American democracy and has been fought for by civil rights pioneers like Dr. King. Yet, this foundation has been eroded by a Supreme Court ruling that rolls back protections from discrimination provided by the Voting Rights Act. It is another reminder that the fight for equality requires constant vigilance. However, the battle on behalf of all those who wish to exercise their rights at the ballot box does not end here. I am proud to represent a state with a long tradition of carrying the banner on behalf of equality, civil rights, human rights and respect for others. So as we recommit to Dr. King’s vision today, we must double down and continue marching in the name of those who still seek a fair shot and equal opportunity in America.”