Political Quotes

“Every February, Black History Month affords us the opportunity to learn about, celebrate, and honor Black leaders and to shine a light on the often-neglected contributions of African Americans in every area of our history. Today, I rise to pay tribute to 10 remarkable individuals from Michigan's Seventh Congressional District--some of them famous names, others with buried histories that deserve to be shared. Their stories span the geographical breadth of the district as well as the depths of our Nation's history: from the Civil War heroes of escaped slaves to modern singers and scholars. All of them should be celebrated, and all of them called Michigan home. Before I share their stories, though, I must also share the story of our great State. While many know Michigan for the Motor City or for Motown, what you might not know is the critical role our State played in the Underground Railroad. There are endless accounts of our State's importance to the secret network that aided thousands of people on their journey to freedom. Conductors hid freedom seekers in their homes and barns during the day. At night, freedom seekers would go to a depot in the next town. For many, Detroit, code name ``Midnight,'' was the last stop before making their way to a free life in Canada, but a number stayed in Michigan and started their new lives.…”