On the recordMay 8, 2025
Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Hayti Heritage Center in Durham, which has been at the forefront of advancing the heritage of the historic Hayti and the African-American experience. Through dance, music, and culture, this center has continued to uplift and enrich the vibrancy and spirit of our city in immeasurable ways. The history of Durham cannot be separated from the history of Durham's Black Wall Street and Hayti, a thriving cultural and business hub for Black Americans. The Hayti Heritage Center's steadfast commitment to preserving this rich heritage is a profound gift to our community. Now more than ever, as we see efforts to rewrite our Nation's past, the work of centers like these, which promote cultural understanding through community events, are more critical than ever. It is truly an honor to represent a district that is home to such a remarkable institution. Madam Speaker, the impact that the center has had on generations of our community cannot be understated. I congratulate the center on this tremendous milestone, and I look forward to seeing them all and the meaningful work and achievements that lie ahead. ____________________





