Martin Luther King, Jr. Statue Dedication
Larry R. Faulkner
September 24, 1999
East Mall
The University of Texas at Austin
The core purpose of this university is: "To transform lives for the benefit of society."
In these closing days of the millennium, I know of no other figure of the 20th century whose life and work so embodies that purpose than Martin Luther King, Jr. "To transform lives for the benefit of society."
Last week we reopened the Tower of The University and extended an invitation to all the people of Texas to come to this campus. To see and to be inspired by their university. The Tower is a symbol of educational excellence and opportunity. It must symbolize opportunity for all people.
Dr. King's 1963 "I Have A Dream Speech," depicted in bas-relief on the base of the sculpture, included this statement: "We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation." Public higher education in this nation is an essential resource. This university is our State's vault of opportunity. Here at The University of Texas at Austin--we are committed to keeping the door wide open.
I am pleased that when the people of Texas come to this campus, they will be welcomed by this magnificent sculpture--and by Dr. King's outstretched arm. Texans will be reminded of his life and work. They will be reminded of his inspiring message: "Now is the time to open the doors of opportunity to all of God's children," he said. "Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood."
At times in our past, dark clouds have obscured the brilliant light of justice that illuminates the dream of Martin Luther King. But the students here today, and the students who would not let this project fail, fill me with optimism for the future. I applaud your initiative, your resourcefulness, and your stamina. Twelve years is a long time. Congratulations. In celebration of this milestone, the UT Tower will be lighted orange tonight.
Let us all continue to work together--today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes--to make the dream of Dr. King a reality in America.
Click Here for a printer friendly PDF version. PDF format requires Adobe Acrobat Reader for viewing.
