OPINION: Florida proud to honor MLK's legacy

“I say to you today, my friends, though, even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up, live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.’”

These words are as moving today as when first spoken by the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., the passionate and influential civil rights leader. Today we will reflect on the life and legacy of King – who, with his brave supporters, stood in strong opposition to racial discrimination, as well as the wrongful and unequal treatment of people who differed in national origin and religious beliefs.

The state of Florida continues to carry King’s legacy forward, and it is committed to ending discrimination and ensuring all within our state have fair and equal access to employment and housing

The Florida Commission on Human Relations was established in 1969 to enforce the Florida Civil Rights Act and address discrimination through education, outreach and partnership. And each year the commission recognizes Floridians who advance civil rights by inducting honorees into the Florida Civil Rights Hall of Fame.

Everyone should have the opportunity to live the American Dream. Martin Luther King Jr. paved the way for our society to embrace equality, and it is our job as Americans and Floridians to ensure the civil rights of all people.

Angela Primiano is the vice chair of the Florida Commission on Human Relations.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Florida strives each day to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.