(PATERSON) – Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly (D-Bergen, Passaic) issued Wednesday the following statement:
“On this day, the 50th anniversary of the assassination of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we must take a hard look at Dr. King’s timeless lessons on peace, our shared humanity, the true meaning of liberty and the pursuit of social justice.
“While the struggle for equality remains an uphill battle, Dr. King’s message gives us hope today. Hope for justice for all. Hope for a quality education for our children and to ensure their safety in our schools. Hope to improve our neighborhoods and build stronger, safer communities. Hope to empower the next generation to go farther than we have come.
“Dr. King, a great orator and community leader, set precedence for the marches for justice and equality we see today. The Women’s March, the Black Lives Matter Movement, and those demonstrations led by the students of Parkland High School are clear examples of the foundation laid by Dr. King and those who stood with him.
“As we reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. today, let’s remember that same message of hope he instilled in people across the nation over 50 years ago still holds significance, resonates with us in these times. Let us keep Dr. King’s dream alive by encouraging each other, especially our youth, to fight for what is right and raise our voices against injustice.”