Today, we honor one of our nation’s most influential and inspiring leaders: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

A social activist and Baptist minister, Dr. King sought equality and human rights for African Americans, the economically disadvantaged, and all victims of injustice through peaceful protest. While he is best known as the driving force behind watershed events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the 1963 March on Washington, which helped bring about such landmark legislation as the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act, he also stood with working people fighting to make their voices heard on the job.

For instance, Dr. King waged what would be the final civil disobedience campaign of his life on behalf of sanitation workers in Memphis, Tennessee, who enlisted his aid during a lengthy strike for job safety, better wages and benefits, and union recognition.

Dr. King understood the concept of unity, and he realized the importance of standing up for all those seeking justice.

So, today, as we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., let us not forget one of the most import lessons he taught us: that there is no adversity too great to overcome when we stand united for justice.

Though many difficult battles lie ahead, we cannot allow ourselves to be divided; instead, we must continue to band together in solidarity to fight for causes we believe in and for the future that we deserve.