Bob Filner: “I am pleased to join you today in honoring the African-American community and its rich history through the observance of…”

“I am pleased to join you today in honoring the African-American community and its rich history through the observance of Black History Month. Throughout this month, we hail the numerous achievements of African-Americans within American society--and in doing so we counter the pervasive stereotypes that pull at our Nation's fabric. In 1961, I served a jail sentence in the Mississippi State Penitentiary for my commitment to the principle of equality. As a foot soldier in the civil rights movement, I know the value of education-- and that's what Black History Month is all about. During this month, we celebrate the intellectual and technical contributions that this Nation has gained from its African-American citizens. Through Black History Month, many people will learn of the strides that African-Americans have made toward equality. We applaud this continual struggle toward the principles set forth in our Constitution that 'all men (and women) are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among them are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.' Although we have struggled with making this a reality for all Americans, we must continue to work together to make the American Dream available to all.”