Through the lessons of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., this nation saw how the actions of one man of peace could inspire courage, humility, and compassion in a nation. We learned the importance of upholding the ideals of equality and justice for all upon which this nation was founded. We came to understand in a way we hadn't before that every person in this country - regardless of their color, religion, race, or beliefs - is entitled to the promise of America and their own pursuit of the American Dream.

Dr. King's legacy of equal opportunity lives on at HUD in many, many ways, and his dreams for this nation are deeply woven into both our history and our ongoing work. Our agency touches many of the same principles Dr. King fought for during his lifetime by helping the voiceless find their voice, the powerless find power, and the hopeless find hope.

When we honor Dr. King on this federal holiday, we honor not only the man himself, but all those who have followed in his footsteps.