January 16, 2022 / 10:23 AM.

The equation's really simple: no universal voting rights, no democracy.

In early 1965, King had organized peaceful voting rights demonstrations in Selma, Alabama, only to be arrested.

He concluded with words from the popular civil rights anthem: "We shall overcome.".

In short order, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 became law, loaded with provisions ensuring that federal, state and local elections would, at last, be free, fair, and racially inclusive.

King holiday should be "Remember Selma." Remember the sacrifices made then to guarantee voting rights for all Americans now

And remember that other great civil rights leader, John Lewis, who was beaten by police on that Bloody Sunday, and in whose name Democrats are trying to pass the new Voting Rights Advancement Act

King said so powerfully in 1965, "Yes, we are on the move and no wave of racism can stop us."

First published on January 16, 2022 / 10:23 AM