Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. (Proverbs 31:8-9)

Let us pray: God of justice and mercy, on this day help us remember the reason why you have created us with dignity and honor. Remind us that we should always treat one another with respect and fairness no matter what color their skin are, beliefs they practice, income they earn or group they belong to. Fill our hearts with more compassion and understanding. Today, we also honor the courage of those who came before us who advocated and fought for our basic human rights. May justice prevail always in America. Amen.