As the nation prepares for the inauguration of President Barack Obama for his second term, we look to our president with confidence and high hopes for the future. This year’s inauguration also intersects with a very powerful and meaningful day—Martin Luther King Jr. Day. In honor of Dr. King, President Obama plans to take his oath on the Bible that belonged to King. We hope this powerful symbol represents our president’s dedication to leading our nation into a brighter future, much like King did.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day also reminds us that the anniversary of the 1965 voting rights movement is quickly approaching. The Annual Bridge Crossing Jubilee, which will occur Feb. 28 through March 4, commemorates masses of people moving forward for positive change. This year, the Jubilee celebration will conclude on the steps of the state capitol in Montgomery — a very powerful ending to a powerful week.

As we celebrate the right to vote, a right that paves the way for our basic rights, we should also fight for the many issues that still need to be addressed in our nation.

Whether that issue is gender inequality, gun control or gay rights — there are plenty of issues residents can march for this Jubilee. Events will also be held throughout the week in Selma not only celebrating the right to vote, but how far we have come as a nation.

So, as our first black president takes oath Monday, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we hope the rest of Selma, the rest of the nation, takes a similar oath to be a good citizen and seek change where it is needed.

Much like when thousands of residents marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in 1965, we can all march into a better future.