Memphis state Rep. London Lamar has passed a resolution that honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and also draws attention to the wealth gap suffered by African Americans.
The resolution, passed in the Tennessee House of Representatives, outlines Dr. King’s notable accomplishments. It also brings attention to numerous financial disparities that African Americans are currently facing. The resolution says that 19.5% of Black people in the U.S. live in poverty and Black Americans have the highest rate of poverty across all racial groups according to the latest U.S. Census report. It explains that the real median household income for Black people is $45,870—$10,000 less than the next highest group.
Rep. Lamar said it’s important to highlight economic issues on Martin Luther King Day as he was fighting for economic justice and basic human dignity when he was assassinated in Memphis.
“In one of his last public speeches, Doctor King told a Memphis audience: ‘It isn’t enough to integrate lunch counters. What does it profit a man to be able to eat at an integrated lunch counter if he doesn’t earn enough money to buy a hamburger and a cup of coffee?’ That’s why it is so important we use the holiday honoring this champion to bring attention to all of the issues he fought for,” said Lamar.
