Political Quotes

“I wish to recognize February as Black History Month. Each February our Nation focuses on the contributions African Americans have made in shaping our Nation. This year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History has declared the theme for 2012: ``Black Women In American Culture and History.'' Each year since 1976, the President issues an executive proclamation naming February as African American History Month. More than a half dozen Federal agencies, including the Library of Congress, conduct celebrations, programs, and activities relating to this rich history. I join them in recognizing the importance of remembering the contributions made by such memorable figures as Rosa Parks, Shirley Chisholm, Sojourner Truth and Maya Angelou just to name a few, and our country's initial African-American First Lady, Michelle Obama. Just as importantly, countless unsung African-American women have made a mark in their communities by caring for their families, teaching our youth, running successful businesses, serving their churches, and getting elected to public office. Many African Americans spent their entire lives without getting the credit they deserved. By focusing on Black history in February, we can give overdue acknowledgement and perhaps inspire our young African Americans to continue to achieve greatness. In Alaska, African Americans have worked to build our communities with their many contributions.…”