Presidential proclamation for ‘one of America’s greatest visionary leaders’

We must face the challenges of today with the same
strength, persistence, and determination exhibited by Dr. King,
guided by the enduring values of hope and justice embodied by
other civil rights leaders. As a country, we must expand access
to opportunity and end structural inequalities for all people
in employment and economic mobility. It is our collective
responsibility as a great Nation to ensure a strong foundation
that supports economic security for all and extends the founding
promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness to every
American.

Dr. King devoted his life to serving others, reminding us
that “human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable. Every
step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering,
and struggle — the tireless exertions and passionate concern of
dedicated individuals.” Commemorating Dr. King’s life is not
only a tribute to his contributions to our Nation and the world,
but also a reminder that every day, each of us can play a part
in continuing this critical work.

For this reason, we honor Dr. King’s legacy with a
national day of service. I encourage all Americans to visit
www.MLKDay.gov to learn more about service opportunities across
our country. By dedicating this day to service, we move our
Nation closer to Dr. King’s vision of all Americans living and
working together as one beloved community.
NOW, THEREFORE, I BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested
in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States,
do hereby proclaim January 17, 2011, as the Martin Luther
King, Jr., Federal Holiday. I encourage all Americans to
observe this day with appropriate civic, community, and service
programs in honor of Dr. King’s life and lasting legacy.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand
this fourteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord
two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.
BARACK OBAMA