WHEREAS, Today, the third Monday in January, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a beacon of hope for equality in our nation; and

WHEREAS, Dr. King brought to light the realities facing many Americans and dedicated his life to bring historic change through nonviolent means; and

WHEREAS, Dr. King's unwavering support for the principles of racial justice and social equality changed America; and

WHEREAS, Through his life and in our remembrance of him, Dr. King called on others to make a personal commitment to serve the less fortunate by acting with kindness and compassion; and

WHEREAS, Service is a powerful way to commemorate Dr. King's life and mission by putting into action our reverence for his life and teachings while making the nation better; 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 one's commitment to making life better for all;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate, in recognition of the courageous leadership and legacy of hope demonstrated by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., honor his memory by urging all citizens of our state to continue the legacy of Dr. King by treating all people as equal.