Political Quotes

“I rise today at the close of Black History Month to introduce this concurrent resolution that supports the continued recognition of persons of African descent throughout the year both here and abroad. This resolution commemorates the United Nations designation of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent such that we can continue to honor and recognize the contributions of African-Americans and others to our societies beyond Black History Month. On December 10, 2010, Secretary General Ban Ki-moon launched the International Year for People of African Descent to "promote greater awareness of and respect for the diverse heritage and culture of people of African descent." We should view this year not only as an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of our societies, but also to honor the vast contributions persons of African descent make every day to the economic, social and political fabric of our communities--be they in Africa, Latin America, Europe, or right here at home in the United States. It is also necessary that we recognize the global impact of the slave trade. As Secretary Hillary Clinton noted in her recognition of this year, "[this is a time] to remember our hemisphere's shameful history of slavery and to reaffirm our commitment to eradicate racism and reduce inequality wherever it lingers." All too often, persons of African descent in this country and abroad face discrimination and disadvantage.”