Recognizing Dr. Barbara Shannon-Bannister

Floor Speech

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Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Barbara Shannon-Bannister for receiving the Spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award from Aurora Community of Faith, and for her lifelong service to our community.

The Spirit of MLK Award is presented to an individual who emulates the values, ideas, dreams, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This year, Aurora Community of Faith presented the Spirit of MLK Award to Dr. Shannon-Bannister for her selfless service as an ally and advocate for our community. Devoted to a cause greater than herself, Dr. Shannon-Bannister works tirelessly to take risks and address critical issues and concerns in the lives of everyday people--just as Dr. King did.

Dr. Shannon-Bannister dedicated her life to serving the community. From founding several nonprofit organizations that aid the underserved to bringing the Aurora Branch of the NAACP to Colorado, she has long been engaged in civil rights advocacy and issues impacting marginalized communities. Upon her retirement from a 36-year career with the City of Aurora, Dr. Shannon-Bannister has focused her efforts on Grand Design Inc.--a nonprofit organization she founded in 1984 to preserve cultural and musical traditions of the Black community in Aurora. It is still one of the only Black performing arts companies in the city.

Dr. Shannon-Bannister is a fervent advocate and champion for the African American community, and her commitment--and voice--has never wavered from aiding those in need. Her extraordinary career and service to our community epitomize what it means to live a life for others. In honoring the legacy of Dr. King, I can think of no one more deserving of the Spirit of MLK Award. I congratulate and thank her for her incredible dedication to our community.

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