SAN DIEGO — April 4 marks 56 years since Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King was assassinated. Remembrances were held around the U.S. including here in San Diego
“I just remember the tragedy of it all. The sadness,” said Elizabeth Moore.
She remembers getting a phone call from a friend who attended college in the South about the death of Dr. King
“[He was] important to the family, to our heritage. How can you replace someone like that? You know, it’s impossible,” said Moore.
But like many in the community, they continued to carry on his legacy.
“I, John McCann, 41st mayor for the City of Chula Vista do hereby recognize the second annual State of the Movement as an opportunity to envision Dr. King’s vision today on policy in the spirit of collaboration that will breathe hope into society’s toughest challenges,” said McCann.
President of the People’s Association of Justice Advocates, Shane Harris, dedicated today as a way to heal and continue to be a voice for those who feel powerless.
“Doing this work should not be based on what side you’re on. It should be based on what is right,” said Harris.
He addressed victories in the youth foster system. After a CBS 8 investigation, state lawmakers voted for a law that would stop the practice of government agencies taking social security benefits from foster children, instead letting them keep the payments.
The bill was vetoed by Governor Gavin Newsom last year but there are talks of the bill’s author, Assembly Majority Leader Isaac Bryan, reintroducing a scaled-down version that could conserve Survivors Benefits only.
“Social Security and disability benefits belong to the kids who are in our system, not to the counties who already are getting wealthy on them,” said Harris.
He also talked about initiatives to help southeast San Diego families impacted by the January 22 flood and opposed the proposed tax increase to help improve the city’s stormwater infrastructure.
“I will be working to oppose ballot measures that seeks to increase the taxes on the already hard working citizens across our region. It is anti Dr. Martin Luther King,” said Harris.
San Diego County mayors from both sides of the aisle and District Attorney Summer Stephan, attended the State of the Movement as a pledge to support equity in the community.
“Today we recognize Dr. King as a beacon of hope and resilience,” said Racquel Vasquez, Lemon Grove mayor.
Dr. Kings vision of strength and community continues to resonate with San Diegans.
“That you’re not to give up the fight. But you keep on fighting. That’s, that’s important,” said Moore.
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