Mr. President, in honor of the rich cultural heritage of the African-American community in Maryland and in memory of all the freedom fighters across the Nation, past and present, I am celebrating Black History Month by reexamining what this country still needs to do to guarantee that African Americans are not left behind when it comes to the issues that matter. We are living right now in a world that is fighting for change on many levels, from social unrest in our cities, to expansive international crises. While the news may seem grim, there is also inspiration every day around the world as people come together to bring about the peaceful change that they are fighting for. There are peaceful protests for great social change, the next generation is volunteering and giving hope to their communities, and educational opportunities continue to grow for our youth around the world. Reflecting on where we have been and where we are going, I recognize the immeasurable impact that Maryland African Americans have made to our culture and to the fight for equal rights for all. Benjamin Banneker, born in Catonsville, made scientific strides to help us understand the mysteries of nature. Harriet Tubman and Reverend Josiah Henson each led slaves to freedom through the Underground Railroad running through Maryland, defying the law and fighting for what was right.…
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