
As we gather today to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and legacy, I am reminded of his powerful words:
"Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'" This profound question challenges each of us to reflect on how we contribute to our communities and envision a world where justice, equality, and unity are not just ideals but realities.
Dr. King’s dream of a society where everyone is judged not by their skin color but by their character's content remains an unfinished mission. It calls us to action, to bridge divides, build connections, and empower our neighborhoods—a theme I have embraced as your councilman.
Bridging Divides
Dr. King believed in the power of unity, and it is up to us to bridge divides in our community. Whether those divides are racial, economic, or generational, the work of bringing people together is vital. This year, I am committed to creating spaces for dialogue where we can share our stories, foster understanding, and find common ground. From town hall meetings to youth forums, let us unite to address our challenges as one Norfolk family.
Building Connections
Dr. King’s vision was deeply rooted in the belief that our destinies are interconnected. In Norfolk, we see this daily in the vibrancy of our neighborhoods, our small businesses' resilience, and our educators' dedication. As your councilman, I strengthen these connections by investing in our infrastructure, supporting local entrepreneurs, and ensuring our schools have the resources they need to prepare the next generation of leaders.
Empowering Our Neighborhoods
Empowerment is about giving people the tools and opportunities to thrive. Dr. King’s fight for economic justice and civil rights reminds us of the importance of policies that lift everyone. Whether advocating for affordable housing, expanding workforce development programs, or ensuring public safety, I aim to empower every resident to achieve their fullest potential.
A Day On, Not a Day Off
MLK Day is more than a day of remembrance; it is a day of service and action. I encourage you to find ways to give back to our community today and every day. Volunteer at a local nonprofit, mentor young people or join a cleanup effort in your neighborhood. We can make a difference and honor Dr. King’s legacy meaningfully.
Looking Ahead
Dr. King once said, “The time is always right to do what is right.” As we move forward, let us recommit ourselves to doing what is right for our city and its people. Norfolk’s future is bright, and with your partnership, we can continue to bridge, build, and empower our neighborhoods for generations to come.
Thank you for your trust, passion, and dedication to making Norfolk a city we can all be proud of. Let’s honor Dr. King’s legacy by working together to make his dream our reality.
In service,
Councilman Carlos J. Clanton
City of Norfolk, Superward 7
The theme for 2025: Bridging, Building, and Empowering Our Neighborhoods
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