WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge made this statement in recognition of the anniversary of the death of Martin Luther King Jr.:

"On this day 43 years ago, Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee while supporting a strike by sanitation workers, defending their right to collectively bargain. 

"Because of his dedication to economic justice and ability to utilize non-violent organization, Americans have made great strides toward a more equal society.  As we celebrate the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr., we should look at the foundation of principles in which he dedicated his life, and question whether those are being upheld today.  He promoted the rights of the minority, and of workers.  In Ohio, and throughout the country, Republicans are limiting the rights of workers to peacefully protest.  He saw injustice in removing the voice of the minority; last week, the Governor of Ohio signed Senate Bill 5 into law, banning collective bargaining for 350,000 public employees, rendering them voiceless.  We have made great progress, but there is much more work ahead." 

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