WHEREAS, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired millions of Americans to participate in non-violent protests to support the ideals of equality for all and was a motivating force behind a civil rights movement that had as its goal the creation of a society inclusive of all races, cultures and nationalities; and

        WHEREAS, the celebration of Dr. King’s birthday is intended as a time for all Americans to reaffirm their commitment to the basic principles that underlie our Constitution – equal treatment and justice for all; and

        WHEREAS, Idaho enjoys a richness of diversity in its population, embracing many ethnic and racial groups as a part of both the State’s history and its future; and

        WHEREAS, both State and national observances of this day will focus on the importance of individual volunteerism and a commitment to community service as a way of breaking down social and economic barriers and bringing people together to focus on their common concerns and interests; and

        WHEREAS, the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Idaho’s commitment to human rights, are worthy of reflection and serve as a reminder that improving the quality of life for all members of society is everyone’s responsibility;

        NOW, THEREFORE, I, C.L. “BUTCH” OTTER, Governor of the State of Idaho, do hereby proclaim Monday, January 21, 2008, to be

M A R T I N   L U T H E R   K I N G   JR.  -  I D A H O   H U M A N   R I G H T S   D A Y

and I encourage Idahoans to rededicate themselves to the principles of respect for human rights and freedom, of belief in non-violence, and of commitment to improving the state and nation through community service and volunteerism.
 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Idaho at the Capitol in Boise on this 18th day of January in the year of our Lord two thousand and eight and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred thirty-second and of the Statehood of Idaho the one hundred eighteenth.

BEN YSURSA
SECRETARY OF STATE