Recognizing the Significance of Black History Month
Floor Speech
RECOGNIZING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH -- (House of Representatives - February 24, 2009)
BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT
Mr. JORDAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
I am honored to speak today in support of H. Res. 83, which has been sponsored by my distinguished colleague from Texas, Mr. Al Green, to recognize Black History Month.
Each February during Black History Month, we express our appreciation for the determination and perseverance of the African American community, as well as remember the struggles they have endured. This resolution is a fitting tribute as we just last month celebrated both the life of the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., and the historic inauguration of the first African American President of the United States, Barack Obama.
This resolution seeks to do several things. First, it memorializes the great costs African Americans have paid for injustices of the past and present. The Civil Rights Movement and the events that led up to it were a pivotal point in our history. Martin Luther King, Jr., led the charge to right the wrongs of discrimination and strove to create a nation where all men and women are truly equal.
This resolution also seeks to honor the many contributions African Americans have made to all facets of our lives.
We recognize scientists, such as George Washington Carver, who have changed our daily lives; politicians, religious figures, and activists who have helped shape our Nation, and the artists, entertainers, and sports heroes who continue to make our daily lives more enjoyable.
The collective contributions of the African American community has touched every one of our lives in a positive way.
I reserve the balance of our time.
BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT
Mr. JORDAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, before urging passage of the resolution let me just say I think it's a testimony of the greatness of this country that both the two major political parties today have an African American as their leader, with both Michael Steele, and of course our President, Barack Obama.
I urge the passage of this important resolution, and I yield back the balance of my time.
BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT
Source