Deborah Koff Ross: “Today I rise in strong support of this bipartisan legislation that will award a Congressional Gold Medal to the civil…”

“Today I rise in strong support of this bipartisan legislation that will award a Congressional Gold Medal to the civil rights leaders who so bravely marched for voting rights and equality from Selma, Alabama, to the State capital of Montgomery in March of 1965. As an adopted son of the great State of Alabama, having been educated at both Auburn University and Samford University's Cumberland School of Law, it is an absolute honor to recognize these peace-loving, God- fearing patriots. These marchers, led by civil rights leaders such as Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., and my colleague from Georgia, Representative John Lewis, changed the course of our Nation's history. Ultimately, their fearless efforts led to the enactment of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian award presented by Congress, and I can think of no better time than the 50th anniversary of this moment in our Nation's history to honor and recognize the civil rights leaders who sacrificed so greatly to bring equality to the voiceless across the United States. May their sacrifice, diligence, and dedication to this cause stand as an example to all of us as we continue to serve in this Chamber and in every aspect of our lives.”