Congressman Cohen Commemorates 48th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Assassination

[MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) issued the following statement to commemorate the life and work of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who was assassinated in Memphis, TN 48 years ago today:

“Today we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who was assassinated in Memphis 48 years ago,” said Congressman Cohen. “Dr. King was an American hero whose dream was not just for civil rights and social justice, but for economic justice as well. He preached to the nation the ‘fierce urgency of now’ to address injustice, inequality, and unfairness. He inspired a movement that changed our country for the better.”

Congressman Cohen continued: “Sadly, even today, when it comes to issues like eliminating poverty and protecting the right to vote for all Americans, Dr. King's dream is still just that: a dream. But many of us share that dream, and each passing day is another day closer to its fulfillment. While great strides have been made over the last several decades, there is still much work to be done. I will continue fighting for justice and equality in Congress.”

In addition to his written statement commemorating Dr. King’s life and work, Congressman Cohen will deliver remarks this afternoon at approximately 12:20 PM CT at the “Heartache to Harmony” Luncheon for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. being held at the Memphis Cook Convention Center. The Congressman will also deliver remarks at the April 4th Commemoration Ceremony at the National Civil Rights Museum this evening at approximately 5:20 PM CT. The program will include a changing of the wreath on the balcony of room 306 where Dr. King was assassinated. There will also be a moment of silence at 6:01 PM, the time the fatal shot was fired.