Statement by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz

“Today we honor the work of Martin Luther King who dedicated himself to the American principle that we are all created equal. He was a steadfast guardian of the freedoms that make us a stronger people and a greater country.

“Today we also inaugurate President Obama, a celebration in itself, of the importance of all women and men being given the opportunity to achieve their potential. This day is doubly a reminder of what is possible if we work to achieve the dream of Martin Luther King.

“In Hawai`i and throughout our remarkable nation, let us rededicate ourselves to the values of tolerance, respectfulness and mutual appreciation. This is a bright torch of a democratic society and we all share in carrying it forward.”