Political Quotes

“Thank you, Representative Lee and Representative Payne. Mr. Speaker, as we reflect on this evening's topic, the issue of race relations in America, we want to talk about, just in closing, what can we do. We must do more, we must care more, and we must understand more about the diverse cultures that make up this Nation. A long time ago, as director of community affairs for the Village of Matteson, it has been 19 years now I have worked with a team hosting diversity dinners in our area to grow friendships and nurture relations among residents of the south suburbs of Chicago. Tonight as we discuss race relations in America, I want to reflect on what I see as the way to bridge the differences we experience in understanding in different communities. Earlier this year, I along with colleagues, Democrat and Republican, hosted the Second Annual Congressional Diversity Dinner. Forty Members of Congress--Black, White, Asian, and Hispanic from both parties, including both Republican and Democratic leadership--showed up and enjoyed a meal with their colleagues. During the dinner, we weren't Democrats or Republicans. We were colleagues with some great stories to share. At this year's dinner, I saw a microcosm of our Nation, a crowd made up of Members from coast to coast with truly diverse backgrounds coming together to enjoy each other's company. If we can put aside our racial and partisan blinders to break bread together, I am confident we can find ways to work together.…”