Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King’s vision and legacy by helping others in need. USDA employees from across the country will observe this day through service projects in their communities, working to fulfill Dr. King’s belief that "everybody can be great because everybody can serve."
As we take a moment to think about MLK’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and his commitment to making this country a better place to live, USDA is reminded of the steps we have taken to correct errors, learn from past mistakes, and to chart a stronger path for the future where all Americans are treated with dignity and respect by USDA employees.
Over the last three years, President Obama and Secretary Vilsack have made civil rights a top priority for the Department. We are transforming USDA into a model service provider - one that achieves President Lincoln’s vision of “the people’s department” - by treating each employee and customer fairly and equitably.
Learn more about our efforts from Dr. Joe Leonard, USDA’s Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights.
