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Remarks at Ron Brown Way Dedication Ceremony

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Friday, March 25, 2011
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Commerce Secretary Gary Locke
U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke's Remarks at Ron Brown Way Dedication Ceremony

It only takes one look at the large crowd assembled here today to know that Ron Brown left a permanent mark on Washington, DC and on the U.S. Commerce Department.

Today – in the presence of Ron’s wife Alma, his children Michael and Tracy, and their families – we’ve come together to celebrate his legacy.

It’s a legacy defined by accomplishment and by adherence to the principle that everyone – regardless of who they were or where they came from or what their skin color was – deserved an opportunity to succeed.  Ron made it his business to ensure more people had that opportunity.

Beginning today, this stretch of road behind me will be known as Ron Brown Way.  It's a fitting tribute to a man who was born in Washington, DC and who spent his life working to deliver economic and social justice for people:

  • In this city;
  • Across America; and
  • Indeed, around the world

We lost Ron Brown – and 34 other good men and women – 15 years ago in the skies over Croatia.  

This tribute – “Ron Brown Way” -- will help ensure that what Ron Brown did and what he stood for won’t ever be forgotten.  

Thank you all for coming today.