Governor Brewer proud of Arizona's Olympians

Statement by Governor Brewer

Taking Pride in Arizona’s Olympians

 

“As the 2012 Summer Olympic Games draw to a close, I would like to take a moment to express my pride and offer my congratulations to the fine athletes who so honorably represented our nation in London over the past two weeks.   

 

“It has been wonderful fun to root for all of the American athletes, but especially the 70 competitors and coaches with Arizona ties. As it turns out, quite a few of our local Olympians will be bringing medals back with them to the United States.

 

“Arizona could hardly be prouder of our Olympians, including medal winners: Matthew Grevers, who claimed Gold in the 100-meter backstroke and Silver in the 4x100 relay, and joined University of Arizona alumnus Nick Thoman to secure top honors in the 4x100 medley relay; Rebecca Soni, whose 200-meter breast stroke and 4x100 medley scored her not only two Gold medals, but two world records; Arizona State University alumnae Amy LePeilbet and Sydney Leroux, who  helped lead the U.S. women’s soccer team to Gold; swimmers Alyssa Anderson, Breeja Larson and Caitlin Leverenz; Silver medalist archer Brady Ellison; and triple and long-jump medal winner Will Claye. Just this weekend, Team USA claimed Gold medals in men’s and women’s basketball, with contributions by Diana Taurasi of our own Phoenix Mercury, as well as James Harden of ASU and Andre Iguodala of the UA.

 

“Of course, a number of athletes with Arizona connections competed on behalf of home countries other than the United States. Congratulations to medalists Takeshi Matsuda, who represented Japan in swimming to Silver and Bronze medals in the 4x100 medley relay and 200-meter fly; Victoria Azarenka of Belarus, who earned Gold in tennis; and Australia’s Rowie Webster, who won Bronze in Women’s water polo. These athletes may have competed on behalf of their home countries, but we know they hold Arizona in their hearts.

 

“It was a true pleasure and privilege to watch each of our athletes compete. They have made Arizona proud.”

 

Luke Air Force Base designated home to Air Force's F-35 training center

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

Luke AFB to Welcome F-35 Training Center  

 

            “This is a proud day for Arizona, as the United States Department of Defense has officially announced Luke Air Force Base as the designated location for the Air Force’s new F-35 training center.

 

            “With this welcome and long-awaited news, Luke AFB will be home to the F-35A Lightning II (Joint Strike Fighter) training mission. The base will initially receive three squadrons – totaling 72 next-generation aircraft. The DOD announcement also allows for the potential of Luke AFB to receive up to three additional squadrons of F-35’s over time as F-16’s are gradually retired from the Air Force.

 

            “Luke AFB is the largest active-duty F-16 training base in the world. But with the Air Force scheduled to phase-out and retire the F-16 between now and 2025, it was critical that Luke AFB receive this critical assignment for the F-16’s replacement: the F-35.

 

“Today’s announcement not only ensures Arizona will continue to play a leading role in our nation’s security and defense, it also helps assure the long-term viability of Luke AFB and its status as a critical driver of jobs and local economic development. The base alone generates more than $2 billion in statewide economic impact every year, and its designation as a training center for the F-35 is expected to create more than $100 million in immediate federal investment. That’s good news for the thousands of Arizona civilians and businesses that will benefit from the additional jobs, wages, consumer spending and tourism dollars that will be generated as a result of the F-35 basing.

 

            “Over the last 70 years, Luke AFB has trained and graduated more than 56,000 of the finest fighter pilots this world has ever known. The selection of Luke AFB for the F-35 mission is a testament not only to the reputation of the base, but also to the dedicated and unified support of public officials, business leaders, local communities and regular Arizonans all across our great state. Thank you. This day would not have been possible without your efforts.”

Governor Brewer calls Supreme Court decision a victory

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

 

U.S. Supreme Court Decision Upholds Heart of SB 1070

 

“Today’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court is a victory for the rule of law. It is also a victory for the 10^th Amendment and all Americans who believe in the inherent right and responsibility of states to defend their citizens. After more than two years of legal challenges, the heart of SB 1070 can now be implemented in accordance with the U.S. Constitution.

 

“While we are grateful for this legal victory, today is an opportunity to reflect on our journey and focus upon the true task ahead: the implementation and enforcement of this law in an even-handed manner that lives up to our highest ideals as American citizens. I know the State of Arizona and its law enforcement officers are up to the task. The case for SB 1070 has always been about our support for the rule of law. That means every law, including those against both illegal immigration and racial profiling. Law enforcement will be held accountable should this statute be misused in a fashion that violates an individual’s civil rights.

            “The last two years have been spent in preparation for this ruling. Upon signing SB 1070 in 2010, I issued an Executive Order directing the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZ POST) to develop and provide training to ensure our officers are prepared to enforce this law efficiently, effectively and in a manner consistent with the Constitution. In recent days, in anticipation of this decision, I issued a new Executive Order asking that this training be made available once again to all of Arizona’s law enforcement officers. I am confident our officers are prepared to carry out this law responsibly and lawfully. Nothing less is acceptable.

 

“Of course, today’s ruling does not mark the end of our journey. It can be expected that legal challenges to SB 1070 and the State of Arizona will continue. Our critics are already preparing new litigation tactics in response to their loss at the Supreme Court, and undoubtedly will allege inequities in the implementation of the law. As I said two years ago on the day I signed SB 1070 into law, ‘We cannot give them that chance. We must use this new tool wisely, and fight for our safety with the honor Arizona deserves.’”

Arizona job growth for March the strongest since 2006

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

“Today’s March employment report shows that our State added jobs across all eleven major economic sectors in March, and is the latest evidence that the Arizona Comeback is upon us.
“The addition of 18,900 nonfarm jobs is Arizona’s strongest March employment tally since 2006. Perhaps best of all, the construction industry – which took such a beating in the wake of the housing collapse – added 3,800 new jobs. That’s more than double the average March job gain for construction.
“Arriving on the heels of February’s addition of 28,000 new jobs, it is clearer than ever that Arizona’s economy is on the right track. I pledge to continue pursuing the pro-growth policies – lean regulations, competitive taxes and a ready workforce – that helped make this turnaround possible. Arizona’s best days are yet to come.”

State revenues strong, $52 million above forecast through first three quarters of 2012

Governor Jan Brewer: Arizona economic recovery continues, state revenues strong.

 

Governor Affirms Revenue Projections This Year and Through Fiscal 2015

            PHOENIX – State revenues through the first three quarters of fiscal 2012 are more than $52 million above forecast, continuing a strong trend as the Arizona economy recovers and the state budget stabilizes.

 

            For FY’12, which ends June 30, Governor Brewer and her budget team had projected that state revenues would grow 5.3 percent over the previous year. State revenues have thus far easily outpaced this estimate and grown by 8.7 percent – driven by strong returns in the areas of corporate income tax (up 39.4 percent), retail sales tax (up 6.9 percent) and individual income tax (up 7.5 percent).

 

            Arizona’s strong FY’12 performance affirms the Governor’s conservative but positive outlook for the State’s overall economy and fiscal health over the next three years. That viewpoint is shared by national economists. IHS Global Insight – the world’s leading economic analysis firm – recently lowered its recession-risk level, and estimates that Arizona’s gross state product will grow at a healthy rate of 6 percent annually in 2014 and 2015.

 

            “I am keenly aware of recent international and national events that may impact Arizona’s economic recovery, including the rise in gas prices,” said Governor Brewer. “The good news is that most of the data, especially in areas like job growth and state revenues, continues to point toward an improving state economy and fiscal outlook. We must be conservative in our approach to state spending and the budget, but conservatism does not mean pessimism. I will not allow pessimism to guide our decision-making in a way that leaves our state less equipped in key areas like education to meet the challenges of the future.”

 

            The Governor’s budget plan assumes revenue growth that averages 5.6 percent annually between FY’13 and FY’15. By comparison, her revenue forecast projects – on average – $300 million less annual revenue than the forecast issued by Arizona State University for the same period.

 

            “If anything, our State revenue projections have underestimated the pace of economic recovery in Arizona,” said John Arnold, Director of the Governor’s Office of Strategic Planning and Budgeting. “All signs point to continued, steady economic improvement – and the Governor has budgeted accordingly.”

 

NOTE: See revenue/budget details below

 

###

 

 

FY’12 Arizona Tax Collections (through March) Compared to Same Period Last Year

Personal Income Tax – up $151 million (7.5% growth)

Sales Tax – up $134.5 million (5.2%)

Corporate Income Tax – up $128.1 million (39.4%)

 

Total (personal, sales and corporate) – up $413.6 million (8.4%)

 

 

Governor’s Forecast (ongoing General Fund base revenue) for FY’13 - FY’15

FY’13 – $8.01 billion (5% growth)*

FY’14 – $8.5 billion (6.1%)

FY’15 – $8.99 billion (5.8%)

(* without the 1% temporary tax nor 2011 tax changes)

 

 

Governor’s Revenue Forecast vs. ASU

FY’13 – Governor $240.8 million below ASU

FY’14 – Governor $295.2 million below ASU

FY’15 – Governor $351.9 million below ASU

 

Total: Governor’s revenue forecast $887.9 million below ASU

Governor says Arizona has strongest Feb. job growth since 2007

Governor: "Arizonans are getting back to work."

Statement by Gov. Jan Brewer: “I am deeply encouraged by today’s report that, with last month’s gain of nearly 28,000 non-farm jobs, Arizona has seen its strongest February job growth since 2007.

 

               “Arizona generated above-average job gains in seven of the eleven major employment sectors – including strong growth in the leisure/hospitality and manufacturing sectors. Year over year, our state has now added 42,600 new, non-farm jobs. One thing is certain: Arizonans are getting back to work.   

 

               “Needless to say, I am not satisfied. I know too many Arizonans continue to struggle with joblessness and an unpredictable economy. But I also know today’s news proves we are on the right track. I intend to continue pursuing the policies I have championed since taking office – policies that foster job growth by creating a strong workforce and keeping regulations lean and tax rates competitive. Investment fads will come and go, but these are the fundamentals that will grow Arizona’s economy long into the future.”

Governor "disappointed" with today's U.S. District Court decision on SB 1070

U.S. District Court strikes down provision that would have prohibited day laborers from blocking traffic.

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

U.S. District Court’s Ruling Misguided on SB 1070

 

            “I am disappointed with today’s erroneous decision by the U.S. District Court to strike down a significant public safety component of SB 1070.

 

            “The provision, which would have prohibited day laborers from blocking traffic when seeking work on public roadways, was put in place as a necessary traffic safety measure. Judge Bolton’s ruling represents an erosion of the State’s ability to regulate public safety.

 

            “This ruling provides yet another reason why I look forward to the Supreme Court providing guidance on the constitutionality of SB 1070. I am confident that, when the case reaches the High Court in April, the constitutionality of SB 1070 will be affirmed. I will continue to fight for this important law and for Arizona’s right to defend itself and the well-being of its citizens.”

No tuition increase for resident ASU grad students

UA and NAU will not increase tuition for continuing students

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

Keeping Higher Education Affordable

 

          “Arizona universities have released their tuition recommendations for academic year 2012-2013. I would like to applaud Arizona State University for its decision to propose no tuition increase for resident undergraduate students, whether continuing or incoming. I would also like to commend the University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University, each of which has proposed to not increase the tuition of continuing students. 

 

            “I have been a long-time champion for higher education and the integral role it plays in laying the foundation for an equipped workforce and thriving economy. After several difficult years of state budget cuts and university tuition increases, I’m glad to see that these institutions are trying to hold the line on tuition this year. Now, I hope the Legislature will join me in approving a state budget that properly funds and incentivizes innovation and performance by our critical public universities.”

Governor orders flags flown at half-staff for Marine killed in helicopter crash

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

Lowering State Flags in Wake of Marine Deaths

 

            “This week, our nation lost seven U.S. Marines in what has been described as one of the Corps’ deadliest aviation accidents in years. The Marines were performing a nighttime training exercise near the California-Arizona border when their two helicopters crashed.

 

            “Capt. Nathan W. Anderson, 32, was among the casualties of this tragic incident. Capt. Anderson, originally of Amarillo, Texas, was from the Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma. He had deployed three times to Iraq, and was scheduled to deploy to Afghanistan with the other Marines killed in the exercise. In honor of Capt. Anderson’s service and sacrifice, I have ordered that flags at all state buildings be flown at half-staff Saturday, February 25, 2012, from sunrise until sunset.

 

            “I ask that you continue to keep Capt. Anderson and his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. Please also offer your prayers for the friends and family of the other six brave Marines killed during this terrible tragedy:

 

·         Maj. Thomas A. Budrejko,37, of Montville, Connecticut;

·         Capt. Michael M. Quin, 28, of Purcellville, Virginia;

·         Capt. Benjamin N. Cerniglia, 31, of Montgomery, Alabama;

·         Sgt. Justin A. Everett, 33, of Clovis, California;

·         Lance Cpl. Corey A. Little, 25, of Marietta, Georgia;

·         Lance Cpl. Nickoulas H. Elliott, 21, of Spokane, Washington.

 

            “This accident proves once again that our servicemen and women confront dangers daily, whether in combat or on a training mission. We owe them a debt of gratitude.”

Governor welcomes new UA president Dr. Ann Weaver Hart

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

ABOR Names University of Arizona President

            “I would like to welcome Dr. Ann Weaver Hart as the new President of the University of Arizona.

            “Dr. Hart is a national leader in higher education with an extensive record of innovation at large research institutions, most recently as President of Temple University. Under Dr. Hart’s direction, Temple’s undergraduate and graduate applications increased, freshman-retention rates improved and the school’s overall graduation rate increased at the second-fastest clip nationwide among public research institutions. I am confident she will bring the same level of energy and results to the University of Arizona.

            “I also would like to acknowledge Dr. Eugene Sander for his steady leadership of the U of A during this transition period, as well as the Regents’ Presidential Search Committee for conducting its mission in a comprehensive, professional and swift fashion.

           

            “The U of A plays a leading role in educating our citizens, spearheading new research and medical breakthroughs and driving our economy. Dr. Hart has demonstrated her understanding and commitment to the university’s land grant mission, its powerful medical complex and its role as a community hub of activity. Most importantly, she is committed to the success of our state’s next generation of leaders, our students. I have great expectations both for the University of Arizona and its new leader: Dr. Ann Weaver Hart.”

Governor Brewer lauds federal pilot project designation for forest restoration plan

Arizona’s Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI) to Serve as National Model

            PHOENIX – Governor Jan Brewer announced that Arizona’s Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI) has been designated a pilot project by the Council on Environmental Quality. The pilot project is aimed at identifying best practices for forest restoration management across the country.

            “Restoration of Arizona’s forests is critical not only to our state’s rural economy, but to the health and safety of many of our communities,” said Governor Brewer. “Last summer’s destructive wildfire season provided a harsh reminder to Arizona that many of our national forests are in very poor health. With another fire season already having started in southern Arizona, effective restoration management is imperative.”

4FRI was made possible by the collaborative efforts of the State of Arizona, U.S. Forest Service, the Council on Environmental Quality and other groups, as well as the input of Arizona citizens. The initiative is designed to help restore healthier, more natural forest conditions on 2.4 million acres of land in Arizona – including portions of the Coconino, Kaibab, Apache-Sitgreaves and Tonto National Forests.       

The co-chairmen of the Arizona Governor’s Forest Health Council applauded the CEQ pilot project designation. 

            “Many dedicated individuals have had their shoulder to the wheel for a long time on this project that’s so important to our State,” said Scott Hunt, State Forester and co-chairman of the Forest Health Council.  “It is nice to see this pioneering work, which aims to reduce land management conflicts and environmental inefficiencies, recognized at a national level.”

            “It is absolutely critical that projects such as 4FRI are guided by the strongest commitment to collaboration, and the best use of science,” said Ethan Aumack, Director of Restoration Programs for the Grand Canyon Trust and co-chairman of the Forest Health Council.  “This pilot project designation will allow 4FRI participants to share their lessons learned and benefit from others as they strive to create new and innovative ways of planning and implementing landscape-scale restoration.”

Governor's statement on Arizona's 100th birthday

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

Wishing Arizona a Happy Centennial

            “On February 14, 2012, Arizona will celebrate the most historic and significant milestone of its statehood.

            “It’s hard to believe it has been exactly one century since President Taft’s signature declared Arizona the 48^th and last contiguous state in the Union.  Many people doubted that our remote Western territory would ever grow into a thriving state – renowned for its cultural and natural beauty, high quality of life and remarkable economic and educational opportunities.

            “But if one thing is certain, it is that Arizonans are determined. Our people are Western strong. With the Centennial upon us, let us proudly celebrate the obstacles we have overcome, the progress we have made and the opportunities we have created over the past 100 years. Let us also celebrate the years still to come. There is a bright future that awaits.

            “May God continue to bless and protect you and your families, our 100-year-old State of Arizona and the United States of America.”

Governor Brewer files SB 1070 brief with U.S. Supreme Court

State of Arizona to defend Immigration Law in oral argument April 25

 

PHOENIX – Governor Jan Brewer and the State of Arizona today filed an opening brief with the U.S. Supreme Court regarding SB 1070.

 

Governor Brewer has asked the High Court to lift an injunction that has blocked critical provisions of SB 1070 from taking effect. The Court is scheduled to hear the oral argument on April 25, 2012.

 

Statement by Governor Brewer

 

“Today’s filing and the upcoming oral argument before the U.S. Supreme Court are the culmination of a battle I pledged to fight on behalf of the people of Arizona. This debate is not just about SB 1070. Rather, it is for the constitutional principle that every state has a duty and obligation to protect its people, especially when the federal government has failed in upholding its core responsibilities.

 

“The people of Arizona have borne the brunt of this federal failure. We see it in our hospitals, burdened with the costs of providing care to uninsured illegal aliens. We feel it in our neighborhoods, too often victimized by drop houses and drug-runners. Meanwhile, the federal government compensates the State for just a fraction of  costs Arizona incurs due to illegal immigration. SB 1070 is Arizona’s way of saying ‘enough!’

 

“I take heart that Arizona is not alone in this effort. States like Utah, Alabama, South Carolina and Georgia have followed our lead in enacting SB 1070-style legislation, and citizens from every state in the union have supported Arizona and joined our chorus in calling for the federal government to secure the border. They know a simple truth: Arizona may be the gateway for illegal immigration, but the problems associated with a porous border do not stop in the Grand Canyon State. They spread nationwide.

 

“The struggle over SB 1070 has not been easy. It is emotional, as is any issue that impacts lives and livelihoods. But, as we present our legal case to the Supreme Court, I remember my words from the day I signed SB 1070 into law. ‘We must use this new tool wisely,’ I said, ‘and fight for our safety with the honor Arizona deserves. We must react calmly. We must enforce the law evenly and without regard for skin color, accent or social status. I know in my heart that this great state, my home for more than 40 years, is up to the task.’

 

“I am optimistic, if the High Court overturns the injunction, the State of Arizona will yet have the chance to prove it.”

Maricopa County Superior Court upholds Empowerment Scholarship Accounts

In April 2011 Governor Brewer signed into law SB 1553 expanding ability of special needs students to attend private schools.

            Governor Jan Brewer today released the following statement regarding a Maricopa County Superior Court decision upholding the constitutionality of Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Accounts. In April 2011, the Governor signed into law SB 1553, which expanded the ability of students with special needs to attend private schools. The Governor’s statement follows:

            “As a champion of school choice and education innovation in Arizona, I commend the Court for upholding the constitutionality of Empowerment Scholarship Accounts. Empowerment Accounts are a powerful tool to expand educational opportunities for special-needs students in Arizona. I’m especially supportive of these accounts because they put funding directly in the hands of parents, allowing them to choose the school that best serves their child.

“Today’s ruling is particularly apt, as it comes amid our celebration of National School Choice Week. I’ll continue to fight for programs like Empowerment Scholarship Accounts that give power to parents rather than bureaucrats, while supporting innovative reforms that improve the productivity and performance of Arizona schools.”

Governor announces Gifford's office officially vacant as of 5 p.m. today

Governor receives official letter of resignation from Congresswoman Giffords
 

Governor's Statement

            “This morning, I received the official letter of resignation from Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. As a fellow elected official, I know her district will miss her leadership. As a friend, I am so sorry Gabby’s resignation has come under these circumstances. 

 

“From the Arizona House of Representatives to the U.S. Congress, Gabby has always served her constituents with dignity and distinction. Her service will be deeply missed, and I join the people of Arizona in praying for her continued recovery.

 

“For the purposes of Arizona Law, the Congresswoman’s office will be officially declared vacant at 5 p.m. (Arizona Time) today, at which time I will have 72 hours to set a date for a Special Primary election. The winner of the special primary and general elections will complete the remainder of Congresswoman Giffords’ term, in accordance with state law.”

 

Governor's statement on Congresswoman Gabrielle Gifford's resignation

Governor will call special Primary and General Election to fill 8th Congressional District vacancy

 

“Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords has been a noble public servant to the State of Arizona, and a model of what can be accomplished with persistence and determination. Her remarkable recovery over the last year is an inspiration to us all.

 

“As with all Americans, I will continue to hold Gabby in my thoughts and prayers as she continues on this path toward recovery.

 

“Upon the Congresswoman’s office being officially declared vacant, I will call a special Primary and General Election in order to fill the 8^th Congressional District vacancy, in accordance with Arizona law. The winner will complete the remainder of Congresswoman Giffords’ term, which expires at the end of 2012.”

 

Governor gets news that Luke AFB is preferred alternative as base for new Joint Strike Fighter

 

Statement from Governor Jan Brewer

Basing of the new F-35A Joint Strike Fighter

 

Governor Jan Brewer released the following statement in response to today’s release of the draft Environmental Impact Statement on the basing of the new F-35A Joint Strike Fighter:

 

“I am delighted by today’s news that the U.S. Air Force has maintained Luke Air Force Base as the preferred alternative for the military’s new Joint Strike Fighter, the F-35A Lightning II.

 

“Luke AFB has long enjoyed a well-earned reputation for training the best pilots in the Air Force. With the arrival of the F-35, the base can continue this tradition for decades to come. Additionally, the Tucson Air Guard Station – home of the 162^nd Fighter Wing at Tucson International Airport – also is a candidate to receive future F-35 assignments. Tucson AGS, with its potential to house as many as 72 Joint Strike Fighters, is an exceptionally attractive candidate for future F-35 operations.”

 

“The fact that Arizona has two of the four finalists for F-35 placement is a testament to the quality of these facilities and the unwavering support they receive from the people of Arizona, its elected officials and local communities. Luke AFB and Tucson AGS are uniquely-qualified for the training of F-35 pilots, from our exceptional climate to the valuable air space provided by the Barry M. Goldwater Range and Libby Army Air Field.

 

            “I encourage the citizens of Arizona to attend public hearings scheduled in February in order to make their opinions known on the basing of the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter. It’s important that the Air Force hear from the people of Arizona before making this critical decision.

 

“I look forward to July 2012, when a final decision will be announced on the basing of the F-35. I’m confident the Air Force will conclude what those of us in Arizona already know: That Luke Air Force Base and the Tucson Air Guard Station are the perfect choice for this next-generation aircraft.”

Governor orders flags flown at half-staff for fallen Marine Cpl. McGeath

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer
Mourning the Loss of Marine Cpl. McGeath
"This is a day of sadness as Arizona mourns the death of another one of its bravest: Marine Cpl. Phillip D. McGeath. But it is also a day of pride for a state that continues to produce courageous individuals like him – men and women who put their lives at risk in service to the nation they love.

"We owe Cpl. McGeath our eternal gratitude. Please join me in offering a prayer for his family and friends, who will need Arizona’s support at this most difficult of times.
"In honor of Marine Cpl. Phillip D. McGeath, I have ordered state flags lowered until sundown today, January 20, 2012." "Cpl. McGeath, 25, was killed January 18, 2012, while conducting combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. A Glendale resident, Cpl. McGeath was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, and was based at Camp Lejeune, N.C.

In Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Monday, Jan. 16, 2012

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivering his I Have a Dream Speech at the Civil Rights March on Washington, D.C. Aug. 28, 1963   Photo courtesy of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Public Domain Resource Site

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

(Reprinted from Friday, Jan. 14, 2011)

In Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr./Civil Rights Day

            PHOENIX – “In 1986, President Ronald Reagan celebrated America’s first observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a federal holiday -- noting that ‘Dr. King forged a dream out of the values of his religion and the ideals of our nation's founders.’

“Dr. King’s dream still inspires us, and his spirit continues to champion freedom and fairness -- and justice for all. We all know that there is still work to be done. We all know that hatred, intolerance and ignorance still breathe in the dark corners of American society.

“But Dr. King’s vision of love and non-violence shines a light into those dark corners. Our mission is to join hands and work toward the day when Dr. King's dream comes true – a dream that echoes his words: ‘All of God's children will be able to sing with new meaning, '... land where my father’s died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring.”

“His lessons to us were many, his legacy for the nation, preserved forever. So, with his spirit still guiding us, let us reach out to those who have fallen down, or fallen behind, those who have stumbled.  These are our neighbors, our friends and, in Dr. King’s name, what better day to reach out to those in need, and renew our devotion to the glorious work he left for us to finish.”