Yesterday we remembered and celebrated the profound life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

I was fortunate to meet Dr. King as a founding member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. I often say that my first meeting with Dr. King was my “Saul to Paul” transition -- because I was never the same after that, John. 

Dr. King inspired many, including me. I dedicated my life and career to fighting for justice, equality, and civil rights for all, and still do to this day in Congress.

I still remember the day Dr. King was assassinated. It was nine months after the last time I saw him alive at a lunch at Septima Clark’s home in Charleston in 1967. I remember hearing the news, going home, numb, and sitting in my house listening to the radio until the sun came up the next day.

I’ve been reflecting on Dr. King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” In it, he wrote, “Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”

That’s a lesson we must continue to carry with us, John. While one person might have easy access to broadband, clean drinking water, quality education, and affordable health care, that’s not the case for all Americans. And when any of those issues affect one of us, the consequences are felt by all of us -- in our communities, our economy, our public safety and health.

This is a great country. It’s our mission to make that greatness accessible and affordable to all, and I’m honored to have you as a committed part of our movement as we work together to create a more perfect union.

Thank you,

Jim