Dr. King was a drum major for justice, a giant whose life was a testament to the American ideal, that one man can make a difference.
In a sermon on the eve of his assassination, he surely described his own mission when he asked, “Who is it that is supposed to articulate the longings and aspirations of the people more than the preacher? Somehow the preacher must be Amos, and say ’let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.'”
Martin Luther King Jr., did exactly that, he gave eloquent voice and powerful leadership to the long-cherished hopes of millions as he headed a crusade to end bigotry, segregation, and discrimination in our land; to foster equal opportunity, and to make universal America's promise of liberty and justice for all.
Dr. King's work is not done, but neither is his witness stilled. He urged again and again that all of us come to love and befriend one another, to live in brotherhood and reconciliation, to nourish each generation with the lessons of justice and charity that Dr. King taught with his unflinching determination, his complete confidence in the redeeming power of love, and his utter willingness to suffer to, to sacrifice, and to serve.
We must and we can all be drum majors for justice. That is our duty and glory as Americans.
I hope that all Arizonans agree with me and join me in supporting a holiday to commemorate these ideals to which Dr. King dedicated his life.
Ronald Reagan
Former President of the United States
Letter written in support of a King Holiday submitted to the Arizona Secretary of State's office for publication in the publicity pamphlet in 1990.