As we celebrate Black History Month, we must embrace that Black History Month and Black history is American history. When we embrace Black history as American history, we tap into a wellspring of intellect, perspective, and capacity. Individually, we shine, but collectively, we radiate brilliance and effect change in our Nation and around the world--change as doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, artists, sports folks, Members of Congress, moms, and more. I honor Harriet Tubman, the first woman to lead an armed Civil War expedition, freeing over 700 South Carolinians. Today at noon, I celebrate the Harriet Tubman Commemorative Coin Act in honor of her 200th birthday, authored by Congressman Greg Meeks. However, Madam Speaker, this is just the first step. I will continue to fight for Tubman on the $20 bill. As we strive to make Black history a required part of American history, we must first recognize the trailblazers. I celebrate Rosa Parks, who resisted on the day of December 1 on that bus and who paved the way for integrated public transportation. Rosa Parks sat down on that bus so I can stand in the Halls of Congress today. Rosa Parks, the mother of the civil rights movement, was awarded a Congressional Gold Medal for her bravery. I am proud that I authored the first Rosa Parks Day in the Nation in Ohio on December 1.…
On the recordFebruary 15, 2024
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