Don Bacon: “In recognition of Black History Month, I rise today to honor two community leaders and two outstanding youth for their…”

“In recognition of Black History Month, I rise today to honor two community leaders and two outstanding youth for their contributions to the Second Congressional District of Nebraska. Brenda Council has been described as a pure force, a trailblazer, a fighter, and a leader who has paved the way for so many in Omaha. As a prominent politician and community leader from North Omaha, she has established a historic career marked by several firsts for African-American women in Nebraska. She was the first African-American woman to serve on the Omaha City Council and president of the Omaha School Board and first to serve in the Nebraska Unicameral. She served on the Omaha Board of Education for 11 years and is president of the National Caucus of Black School Board Members and State senator for the 11th legislative district. Council has held leadership roles in many organizations such as the Urban League of Nebraska, North Omaha Community Care Council, and United Way of the Midlands. Ms. Council has been married to her husband for 40 years. Together, they have one son and five grandchildren. Fred Conley is a pioneering figure in Nebraska politics, recognized as the first African American elected to the Omaha City Council. His career, spanning over 50 years, is defined by breaking racial barriers and advocating for the revitalization of North Omaha. Raised in Omaha, Mr. Conley is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.”