Minister Hawkins Commemorates Life and Work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

  • Advanced Education, Skills and Labour

January 15, 2018

On the anniversary of the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Honourable Al Hawkins, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour, joined those throughout the province and around the world commemorating his life and work.

Dr. King was instrumental in the American civil rights movement and dedicated his life to the struggle for true equality between all people. He founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with the goal of harnessing the passion of black churches to organize non-violent protests demanding civil rights.

These protests, such as the famous marches from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, had a profound impact in the United States, Canada, and worldwide.

Dr. King’s words and deeds continue to inspire those working toward a more fair and just world. Most famous among his many inspiring speeches is the one he delivered during the 1963 March on Washington, which included the widely quoted: “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.”

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to promoting equity and diversity throughout the province, including by partnering with community and other stakeholders to raise awareness of multiculturalism.

In The Way Forward on Immigration in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Provincial Government committed to publicly acknowledge cultural holidays and events. Recognizing these celebrations increases awareness of diversity in the province and helps newcomers feel welcome in their communities.

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“Government, organizations, and each of us individually have a responsibility to keep Dr. King’s dream alive and continue to build inclusive, diverse, and welcoming communities. On behalf of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, it is my pleasure to add our voices to the chorus who join together today to promote the equality of all human beings.” 
Honourable Al Hawkins
Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour

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Media contact
Ryan Crocker 
Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
709-729-1795, 725-9595
RyanCrocker@gov.nl.ca

2018 01 15 10:20 am