I rise to speak in support of the Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act, which I introduced today. Muhammad Ali is often referred to as ``The Greatest,'' an appropriate title which he earned through his inspiring athletic achievements, dedication to ensuring that all Americans have equal rights, and advocacy for underserved communities around the world. Ali serves as an example of service and self-sacrifice for all generations. Muhammad Ali was born in Louisville, KY, on January 17, 1942. From an early age, he excelled in boxing, going on to win a gold medal at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome and becoming an undisputed heavyweight boxing champion. Throughout his career, he helped our Nation grow past the legacy of Jim Crow and segregation in sports. He worked tirelessly to support charitable organizations, including founding the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center and raising over $50 million for Parkinson's research. Ali's devotion to humanitarian causes and racial equality earned him many accolades, including being chosen as a United Nations Messenger of Peace and receiving an Amnesty International Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also chosen to light the Olympic flame at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, and in 2005, President George W. Bush awarded Ali the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Muhammad Ali also left a lasting impact on my home State of California.…
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