Congressman Steny Hoyer is from Maryland and a leading member of the Democratic Party. He said the United States had moved forward on the subject of race. He pointed to the election of President Barack Obama as proof.

"The historic election of President Obama testifies to the progress we have made which would not have been possible except for the millions who sacrificed and raised their voices for change."

The 50th anniversary events included African Americans, Asian Americans, immigrants and young people.

Janet Murguia heads the National Council of La Raza, the nation's largest Hispanic civil rights group. She said Hispanics consider themselves a part of Martin Luther King's dream.

"Millions of Latinos were watching that day in 1963. When we heard Dr. King proclaim, 'I have a dream,' we knew he was talking to us too."

One of King’s sons, Martin Luther King, III, also spoke. He said his father’s dream has yet to be realized. He noted that unemployment and poverty remain high among African Americans.

"Today with 12 percent unemployment rates in the African American community and 38 percent of all children of color in this country living below the level of poverty, we know that the dream is far from being realized."

But he added that, if Americans do their part to support freedom at home, in school, on the job and in organizations, then change will come.

I’m Kelly Jean Kelly.