MLK Dedicated His Life to Make America Better

Today, we pay tribute to a significant figure in the history of our country. Having grown up during segregation, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. refused to accept the notion of an unequal America. He chose not to merely wait and hope for America's promises of equality and justice to fulfill themselves, and instead dedicated his life to making these promises a reality.

Dr. King taught us to reach out and work together for the common good of our nation. He advocated and practiced tolerance and non-violence, despite the tumultuous times in which he lived and the horrendous obstacles which he encountered.

Dr. King, and what he accomplished, has left a legacy that continues to inspire us today. We can keep his memory alive, not just with our words but with our actions.

For 12 years we have hosted, with the Children's Museum of Houston, a Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration that has allowed children and their families to honor the legacy of Dr. King, while inspiring children to dream big. The Children's Museum encourages our children to engage in service that will continue to improve the world we live in. I am extremely proud of being a part of this event since its inception, and today, I had the privilege of introducing this year's Martin Luther King Oratorical Competition winner.

We must work together and take the lessons Dr. King taught us to continue to advance our country.