Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March

Floor Speech

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Ms. KELLY of Illinois. I would like to thank the gentlewoman from Ohio for her important remarks.

As we come to a close, I thank the distinguished gentleman from the Garden State--my good friend, Representative Donald Payne--for his tremendous leadership and for leading this Congressional Black Caucus Special Order hour.

Mr. Speaker, in our hour of power, we have had the opportunity to speak directly to the American people. This is a privilege that I take seriously and a responsibility that the CBC cherishes.

Tonight, we strengthen our future by embracing our past. 2015 represents a critical junction in the advancement of our Nation. Fifty years after the Selma to Montgomery march there are strengthened civil rights and improved access to the ballot. Today, we find ourselves with equally important ground to cover in promoting civil rights, in reducing economic and health disparities, and in strengthening voter rights protection.

As a legislative body, we have made progress, but as Representatives and as men and women who love this country, our work continues. As we look back, we are comforted by the bridges we have crossed, by the trails we have blazed, and by the future ahead of us that we envision.

I want to thank the entire Congressional Black Caucus, especially my fellow coanchor, the gentleman from New Jersey, Congressman Payne.

Fifty years after Selma, the CBC remembers that it exists to promote the public welfare through legislation that meets the needs of millions of neglected citizens. It is that spirit that guides us and many others in Congress.

When we see millions of men, women, and children who need help moving forward, we march. When we see obstruction in our path to creating a more perfect Union, we respond.

Again, I thank my colleagues.

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