On the recordApril 13, 2015
I want to thank my coanchor, Robin Kelly, Congresswoman from Illinois, for being involved in this Special Order tonight. Thanks also to the members of the Congressional Black Caucus who are here tonight on such an important topic. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the people at home who are tuning in to watch this. It is truly an honor to speak to them directly in their homes, to fight on their behalf and to advance our shared priorities. That is why we are here tonight and every Monday night that the House is in session--to address the diverse issues affecting African American communities throughout our Nation and to let you know that we are here, fighting for you every single day. Mr. Speaker, this month is National Minority Health Month. It is a chance to evaluate the state of black health, a chance to address health disparities affecting racial minorities, and a chance to speak to efforts to advance health equity. Today, African American and other minority populations lag behind in numerous health areas, including in the access to quality care, in timelines of care, and in health outcomes. These disparities have devastating impacts on individuals and families but also on our communities and our society as a whole.…
