On the recordMarch 17, 2015
I was proud to join many Members of this House in Birmingham, Selma, and Montgomery, Alabama, from March 6 to 8 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, which led inexorably to the signing of the Voting Rights Act in August of that same year, 1965. It was my 10th visit to Selma to mark the anniversary of Bloody Sunday, and each one is more powerful than the last. The visit was organized by The Faith & Politics Institute and was led by John Lewis, our colleague, such a giant in our history and in this body. While there, Members heard powerful and moving remarks from President Obama, who made history as the first African American to hold the highest office in our land. We also heard, Mr. Speaker, from the late Governor Wallace's daughter, Peggy Wallace Kennedy, who spoke eloquently and movingly about living in the shadow of her father's actions 50 years ago. Governor Wallace later recanted his support for segregation and asked forgiveness from the African American community, and his daughter has worked hard to build bridges and promote dialogue and understanding. Mr. Speaker, I include the remarks of the President into the Congressional Record so that all Members can read them and be inspired and uplifted, as I was in hearing them delivered. Remarks by President Obama at the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery Marches Edmund Pettus Bridge--Selma, Alabama It is a rare honor in this life to follow one of your heroes.…





