ATLANTA (March 16, 2011) – The Georgia State Senate today voted in favor of Sen. Emanuel Jones’ (D-Decatur) bill to create a Martin Luther King, Jr. Advisory Council to coordinate activities in observance of the MLK holiday. Senate Bill 141 aims to promote awareness and appreciation of the Civil Rights movement and Dr. King’s legacy.
“Dr. Martin Luther King overcame seemingly insurmountable odds to bring peace and justice to his fellow man. Every year, we celebrate Dr. King’s noble work. The council will allow for better coordination at the state and local level to educate Georgians on his teachings,” said Jones. “The MLK holiday should represent more than just a break from our daily routine. His life and work is too important for only a moment’s pause of remembrance.”
The advisory council will be housed within the Department of Community Affairs and will be composed of nine members, including the commissioner of DCA, members of the Senate and House and six governor appointees, two of whom must be between the ages of 18 and 22 years old.
The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Sen. Emanuel Jones represents the 10th Senate District, which includes portions of DeKalb and Henry counties. He may be reached at 404.656.0502 or via e-mail at emanuel.jones@senate.ga.gov.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
March 16, 2011
For Information Contact:
Natalie Strong, Director
Kallarin Richards, Deputy Director
Kallarin.Richards@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028