WHEREAS, Today is dedicated to celebrating the birth and life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; and
     WHEREAS, His life was dedicated to serving his fellow man; and
     WHEREAS, Service is a powerful way to commemorate his teachings with action and, in that action, make our nation better; and
     WHEREAS, In serving others, we strengthen the bonds of humanity while breaking the chains of injustice; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. King believed that a person's worth should not be measured by his or her color, culture, or class but rather by his or her commitment to making life better for all through service rendered to each other; and
     WHEREAS, A day of service reflecting the values and teachings of Dr. King brings people together and helps to break down social, economic, and cultural barriers that divide our nation; and
     WHEREAS, A commitment to bringing all people together - regardless of race, creed, religion, or station in life - to face the challenges of this new century would honor Dr. King; and
     WHEREAS, Since 1994, Americans have kept Dr. King's legacy alive on this holiday by serving in their communities, because serving is "the great equalizer"; and
     WHEREAS, Residents of Washington can help make service the common duty of all Americans on this holiday by making it a day of action, not apathy;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the members of the Washington State Senate, on behalf of the people of our state, do, in recognition of the outstanding leadership and courage demonstrated by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., honor his memory by urging all citizens of our state to make Martin Luther King, Jr. Day a day of service.