Remembering Coretta Scott King

REMEMBERING CORETTA SCOTT KING -- (Extensions of Remarks - February 07, 2006)
SPEECH OF HON. TAMMY BALDWIN OF WISCONSIN IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2006

* Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in great sadness as our Nation mourns the passing of Coretta Scott King--the First Lady of the Civil Rights Movement.

* Coretta Scott was preparing for a career in music when she met her future husband, the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., while studying concert vocals at the New England Conservatory of Music. Coretta Scott became Martin Luther King, Jr.'s partner in life and in the movement.

* After the assassination of her husband in Memphis, on April 4, 1968, Coretta Scott King never lost sight of the dream that Dr. King had so powerfully articulated. She dedicated her life to seeing that her husband's work was continued and his legacy protected--all while raising four children. She established the King Center, a living memorial in Atlanta, and successfully worked to establish a Federal holiday in King's honor.

* I have always admired Coretta Scott King's remarkable strength and grace. I am inspired by the depth of her commitment to equality and peace. Coretta Scott King did not waiver in her quest for justice even in the face of violence--as when the King's Montgomery home was bombed. Because of her strength and tenacity, she leaves this world a better place.

* We have lost one of our great leaders. The thought of a joyous reunion of partners separated far too soon, softens our sadness.

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