State and federal leaders gathered at the National Action Network in New York City on Monday to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The main focus of this year's annual King Day Public Policy Forum was to push for the voting rights bill.

“Right now I’m doing everything in my power in Washington to advance legislation that would strengthen our democracy and protect our right to vote to all Americans in free and fair elections,” said Sen. Chuck Schumer.

Also known as the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, the bill promises free and fair elections by expanding the right to vote.

Democratic leaders have been unsuccessful in bringing the legislation to the floor. One obstacle the Senate has to face is the filibuster, which would bring any debate to a close if 60 senators vote against it.

Although Democratic lawmakers were not able to fulfill their original goal of getting the voting rights bill through by Martin Luther King Jr. Day, they say they will continue to fight for it, as senate is scheduled to debate on Tuesday.

“The war is not over, the battle is not over, the march must go on for justice,” said Gov. Kathy Hochul.