Dr. Rudy Lombard Post Office Building

Floor Speech

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Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for the opportunity to speak.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a true American hero, a Louisiana legend, Dr. Rudy Lombard.

My bill, H.R. 996, would designate the post office located at 3901 MacArthur Boulevard in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the heart of Algiers, where the Lombard and Carter families grew up for multiple generations, as the Dr. Rudy Lombard Post Office.

This is a testament to the unforgettable legacy Dr. Lombard left on our city and our Nation. Born in my hometown of Algiers in 1939, Rudy Lombard was known for his determination to make a difference.

As a young college student at Xavier University, Dr. Lombard was a pillar of strength during the height of segregation. His leadership was evident when he fearlessly commanded the CORE Four in a sit-in at McCrory's Five and Dime, challenging the unjust shackles of Jim Crow laws.

Their journey to the Supreme Court in 1963 in the landmark Lombard v. Louisiana case was not just a legal triumph but a pivotal movement in the fight against segregation, setting precedents that broke down discriminatory practices.

Dr. Lombard's commitment to equality extended far beyond those early years. Decade after decade, he stood in the forefront addressing inequities in civil rights, challenging economic and cultural empowerment, and tirelessly advocating for public health.

His life was a testament to the power of one individual to spark change and to build coalitions to stand against injustices.

Today, we are not just bestowing an honor on a distinguished individual, we are cementing a legacy, recognizing a man whose life exemplified leadership by example.

Dr. Lombard was not only a standard-bearer, but he was also a force for positive change, a catalyst for movements that brought people together.

In leading this bipartisan initiative, I am honored to stand beside the entire Louisiana Congressional Delegation who recognize the importance of preserving Dr. Lombard's memory.

I personally thank my colleagues for standing with me. I pray this serves as a reminder to future generations that the struggle for justice is, in fact, real and the impact for one's personal commitment can resonate across the ages. Yes, one person can make a difference. Dr. Rudy Lombard certainly has done just that for generations and generations to come, with his courage, his leadership, and his commitment.

This honor today is a small token to recognize and pay homage to his great leadership.

Mr. Speaker, may we all strive to emulate the spirit of Dr. Rudy Lombard in our service to the American people. I urge a favorable passage.

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