House passes memorial honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., greets MLK Commission

The New Mexico House of Representatives on Feb. 3 passed House Memorial 8, honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and recognizing the state Martin Luther King Jr. Commission for its work across the state.

Representative (sponsor) of Bernalillo introduced the memorial and asked members of the commission on the rostrum to stand for recognition, saying the commission ‘‘makes sure that we are remembering the life and legacy of Dr. King and the six major principles of life that he presented to each and every one of us.’’ Members in the chamber asked about the commission’s history and role; the sponsor said it has existed since ‘‘the first term of the former governor Bill Richardson.’’

Several lawmakers welcomed the commission’s emphasis on leadership programs for students. Representative 10 called the commission’s programs ‘‘so important for ensuring our students succeed in their educational pursuits.’’ Representative 11 recalled marching with the commission in Albuquerque and described visiting King-related sites as formative.

The sponsor moved final passage. The House recorded members present as voting in the affirmative and the clerk announced the vote: 70 in the affirmative, 0 negative. The speaker congratulated the Martin Luther King Jr. Commission and welcomed its members to the House.

The memorial does not create law or appropriate funds; it expresses the legislature’s recognition and appreciation. The commission members identified on the floor included the chair, vice chair, program committee head, and the commission’s new executive director, who were invited to circulate and meet members of the legislative body following the recognition.