Senate Resolution Introduced Commemorating Black History Month

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Sens. Cory Booker D-N.J., Thad Cochran, R-Miss., and Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., introduced a resolution commemorating Black History Month. S. Res 84 recognizes the contributions African Americans have made in education, politics, arts, sports, literature, science, and technology despite centuries of systemic racial discrimination.
“Black History Month tells an American story etched in the shadows of adversity, marred by sacrifice, and elevated in triumph. Each February we honor the contributions of people who bore the foundation of this nation on their backs. Without a doubt, the freedoms I enjoy today as an American are a testament to their tenacious pursuit for equality,” said Senator Booker. “From the abolishment of slavery, the fight for civil rights, and now, our efforts to reform the criminal justice system, this resolution is a tribute to the legacy of African Americans and a clarion call to all Americans to continue the fight for liberty and justice.”
“Black History Month provides us with opportunities to not only remember past injustice and celebrate victories over it, but also to commemorate contributions being made today to ensure equality and justice for all Americans. This rich history and promise for the future carved by African Americans are central to who we are as a nation, and we ought to be proud of it,” said Senator Cochran.
“As Americans it is important for us to recognize the great contributions and achievements of African Americans,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Countless leaders and unsung heroes fought to overcome injustice, risking their lives to secure freedom and equality for all. This tribute honors the sacrifices that have inspired so many who continue this work and will touch lives for generations. I will never forget those values that so many have fought and died for and we must look to them as we work to forge a path to an even better America.”
Other cosponsors include: Sens. Kelly Ayotte R-N.H., Richard Burr R-N.C., Ben Cardin D-Md., Chris Coons D-Del., Richard Durbin D-Ill., Dianne Feinstein D-Calif., Johnny Isakson R-Ga., Jeff Merkley D-Ore., Lisa Murkowski R-Alaska, Chris Murphy D-Conn., Patty Murray D-Wash., Rand Paul R-Ky., Rob Portman R-Ohio, Debbie Stabenow D-Mich., Thom Tillis R-N.C., and Roger Wicker R-Miss.