On the recordMarch 7, 2022
I just want to go over what just happened. After more than 200 failed attempts to outlaw lynching, Congress is finally succeeding in taking the long-overdue action by passing the Emmett Till Antilynching Act. Hallelujah. It is long overdue. The first anti-lynching legislation was introduced a century ago, and after so long, the Senate has now finally addressed one of the most shameful elements of this Nation's past by making lynching a Federal crime. That it took so long is a stain--a bitter stain--on America. While this will not erase the horrific injustices to which tens of thousands of African Americans have been subjected over the generations--nor fully heal the terror inflicted on countless others-- it is an important step forward as we continue the work of confronting our Nation's past in pursuit of a brighter and more just future. I want to applaud the work of the legislation's sponsors. Senator Booker has been relentless to get this done and deserves tremendous credit, as does his colleague on the Republican side of the aisle, Senator Scott, and, of course, Representative Bobby Rush, who worked so hard to pass this bill as well. We look forward now to President Biden quickly signing this long- delayed bill into law. ____________________
