2007 programs and events

Reception in Commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

On January 17th, in commemoration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the U.S. Embassy in Minsk hosted a reception for members of the diplomatic community, NGOs, students, teachers and media representatives at the Minsk Pushkin Library. A poster-show depicting Dr. King's struggle for equality and justice was displayed, and the audience was shown Dr. King's heart-felt and powerful "I Have a Dream" speech.

U.S. Ambassador Karen Stewart addressed the audience, commenting on the contributions of Dr. King to U.S. society and his profound influence on the Civil Rights Movement, remarking that "he stood for a world free of bigotry and full of faith, hope, love and justice. He dared to dream of a better world where democracy and freedom are cherished for all."

Political Section Chief Dereck Hogan described to the audience the direct impact King has had on his own life. Mr. Hogan remarked that he joined the U.S. diplomatic corps to "continue the work of Dr. King," and as a representative of the U.S. government, he has had "the privilege and responsibility to articulate to other societies the lessons America has learned on its continuous march towards genuine democracy and freedom for all Americans."