Martin Luther King Jr. Day commemorates and celebrates this incomparable American and his life’s work to advance civil rights, human dignity and the American Dream. On this day, we take the time to remember his words and the social changes he helped usher into existence. 

The efforts of civil rights organizers ranging from students to lawyers to preachers, under the leadership of Dr. King, Medgar Evers, Rosa Parks and more, brought about the society we live in today, one where we believe in judging people based on the content of their character rather than the color of their skin. 

Last week, the department held a celebration in honor of Dr. King. There, Secretary Rollins reminded us that MLK Day is an American commemoration. One cannot separate Dr. King’s legacy as a civil rights leader from his legacy as pastor and servant to the people. That legacy of service is one we celebrate each year, and one that resonates particularly with those of us who chose the civil service. We believe in service to the American public, and all we do in the Forest Service reflects that ideal. 

I hope that you take time to reflect on the monumental changes Dr. King helped enact. It was a period of our nation’s history that, as Secretary Rollins said, we will ensure never happens again. 

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