The historic speech by Dr.
Martin Luther King Jr. whose 50th anniversary we celebrate today had
justice as its overarching theme. In a rather short address, Dr. King uses the
word justice nine times, ultimately calling on a shaking of the foundation of
this nation until the bright day of justice emerges. This call was appropriate.
In his seminal encyclical, Pacem in Terris, Pope John XXIII quoted St, Augustine
that ``Take away justice, and what are kingdoms but
mighty bands of robbers.’’ Dr. King understood this profound truth. His call
for justice rang out fifty years ago and rings out just as strongly today. His
message of social justice is compelling and eternal as we honor his dream
today. Thank you Dr. King for doing as President Lincoln did and touching the
better angels of our nature.