Press Releases

Today, U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) delivered the following remarks to celebrate Martin Luther King Day at the kickoff celebration and breakfast for the MLK Day of Service event sponsored by Whatcom’s Service Learning Program. Larsen then joined volunteers in a day of community service in Whatcom County.

Remarks as prepared for delivery:

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once stated that "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. The true neighbor will risk his position, his prestige and even his life for the welfare of others..."

It is a fitting tribute to Representative Gabrielle Giffords, my good friend and colleague in Congress, that we are gathered here to celebrate Martin Luther King Day- a day to remember the life, legacy and teachings of Dr Martin Luther King Jr.-as we continue to pray for Gabby’s recovery and honor the victims of the unforgiveable tragedy in Arizona.

Gabby Giffords is a dedicated public servant. She carries the values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr-fairness, opportunity, and service-with her every day as she works to take care of her constituents and her community.

Martin Luther King Day is a living holiday that gives all of us the chance to rededicate ourselves to practicing these same values to ensure that our nation is rich with opportunity and fairness.

What does the Lord require? Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.
These words from the prophet Micah are as true today as they were when first spoken.

They provide guidance for how we in Congress can lead by example for everyone in this country as we try to come to terms with the tragedy in Arizona.

We can work with and for each other with justice, mercy and humility in our hearts.

When Micah said these words, they were guidance. Today, they are a plea.
Or, as the President said Wednesday night, “It is important to pause for a moment and make sure that we are talking with each other in a way that heals and not in way a way that wounds.”

I know we can heed these words.

As we keep all the victims of this tragedy in our prayers, we can also honor them by carrying the ideals of Martin Luther King, Jr with us every day of the year.
I ask you, on this Martin Luther King Day, to join me in recommitting to honoring Dr King by dedicating ourselves to creating heaven on earth and a country that meets the expectations of our children

Today, I will honor Dr. King by joining Northwest Youth Services to set up a shelter for homeless teens in Bellingham, WWU students to read books about civil rights, justice and service to local children, and working on the restoration site along Whatcom Creek.

###