On the recordOctober 11, 2018
Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Class of 2019 inductees and celebrate their contributions to our State, country, and literally the world. Founded in 1992 by Charles Stewart and Patricia Goodwin to recognize the gifts of African Americans with Arkansas roots, the first induction ceremony in 1993 honored six individuals, including acclaimed poet, author, and activist Maya Angelou and civil rights advocate and Little Rock Nine mentor Daisy Bates. We are probably all familiar with Arkansas' role in the movement for public integration. The African-American students who were threatened and intimidated by fellow classmates and community members as they tried to enter Little Rock Central High School quickly became icons of the civil rights movement because of their courage in the face of overwhelming adversity. These nine students, known as the Little Rock Nine, were inducted into the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame in 2007. They, along with other individuals who are members of the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame, represent diverse areas of advocacy, interest, and expertise. More than 150 people are part of this select group because of their contributions to American culture and Arkansas history. This year, six individuals will join this distinguished group when they are inducted on Saturday, October 27, 2018. I want to take a moment to recognize the inductees and their accomplishments.…





