“Today, we commemorate the March on Washington, an event symbolic of a movement that changed this country and the entire world.  As I reflect on this day in history and Dr. Martin King Jr.'s key role in this march, movement and the transformation of our country, I am moved by how far we have come, but concerned about how many more miles we have to travel.  I hope we all use this day to challenge ourselves to do our part to right the wrongs that still exist.  The overwhelming majority of right-thinking people understand that the continued disparities in education, health, housing, and employment prevent the objectives sought by marchers 50 years ago from becoming a reality and overshadow the progress of those of us who have benefited greatly from their sacrifice.  I am eternally grateful for the ability to stand on the shoulders of trailblazers like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; Shirley Chisholm, Barbara Jordan, Mayor Richard Gordon Hatcher and others and clearly understand my obligation to create a path for other whenever and wherever I can.  Gary, Indiana is very blessed to occupy a place in the history of our country and the movement towards equality and change in this country.” – Karen Freeman-Wilson