WASHINGTON, DC, Nov 13 -  

“This morning, distinguished guests and citizens gathered along the National Mall for the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Washington, D.C. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial. As our nation proudly recognizes the life and legacy of Dr. King with this Memorial, we are ensuring that his contributions will be honored and remembered for present and future generations.

“The Memorial will soon be built along the Tidal Basin of our nation’s most prestigious stretch of monuments. It will be situated between the Jefferson and Lincoln Memorial, where Dr. King famously gave his inspirational “I Have A Dream” speech. The four-acre location will feature stately trees, beautifully carved stone, and elements of water to incorporate the themes of justice, democracy, and hope which Dr. King so deeply stood for. His faith in the democracy of our nation will be paid tribute by inscribing his words of justice and freedom on prominently display around the memorial.

“At the ceremony, President George W. Bush and former President Bill Clinton gave remarks on Dr. King’s legacy to our nation. In addition, Oprah Winfrey and Maya Angelou joined Dr. King’s children in commemorating the groundbreaking of this monument.

“As a great American leader of the 20th Century, Martin Luther King, Jr. committed himself to the advancement of civil rights and harmony within our nation. Dr. King’s courage to initiate peaceful change and leadership in the face of adversity has ensured freedom and opportunity for all citizens of our nation.

“Through his inspirational speeches and peaceful demonstrations, Martin Luther King, Jr. envisioned a world of equality. His hope for the American people has called our nation to service. We must never become complacent in our dreams for this country, and we must continue to fight for our founding freedoms.

“The words, ideas, and actions of Dr. King are noble standards in which America remains committed to aspiring to. As Dr. King once said, “The time is always right to do what is right.” His life serves as a role model for all citizens, especially those willing to stand up and make changes for community and nation.

“Although his life tragically ended too soon, Martin Luther King, Jr.’s contribution to our nation will never be forgotten. This memorial will aptly remind all who visit that Dr. King’s unwavering ethics, faith in human life, and conviction of equality and justice remain a part of the American character forever.”