(Washington, DC)  Given the impending impact of Hurricane Irene, the DC Full Democracy Freedom Rally and National Action Network March scheduled for Saturday, August 27 have been cancelled. Both events were among the week of activities planned for the dedication of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial.

The Washington DC area is now under a tropical storm warning which can bring heavy rain, flash floods and high winds to the area. The city is getting ready for the impending storm and placing agencies on alert.

Mayor Vincent C. Gray is urging residents to take the necessary precautions to meet the challenges that may be presented by the hurricane.

"While we cannot predict with certainty the path of the hurricane, residents must be ready," said Mayor Gray. "That means residents need to have a plan that they can activate. If they do not have a plan, they can go to hsema.dc.gov to learn what is needed. These storms can cause power outages that may last through several days. Residents should have an adequate supply of medications, infant formula, water, fresh batteries and other essentials."