Louis Stokes: “I want to express my appreciation to my colleagues who are joining me in the Chamber this evening for our special order…”

“I want to express my appreciation to my colleagues who are joining me in the Chamber this evening for our special order in observance of Black History Month. We take special pride in this opportunity to highlight and pay tribute to the notable accomplishments of African-Americans who have contributed so much to this great Nation. I am pleased to also recognize the efforts of our colleague, Kweisi Mfume, the distinguished chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, who joins me in sponsoring this special order. Madam Speaker, as we gather to commemorate Black History Month, we recognize the contributions of African-Americans to every facet of American history. Indeed, African-Americans have a rich and magnificent history; a history which is inextricably woven into the economic, social, and political fabric of the Nation. In 1926, the late Dr. Carter G. Woodson understood that black Americans were not receiving recognition in history for their contributions. Therefore, he proposed setting aside 1 week during the month of February to commemorate the achievements of black Americans. In 1976 the observance was changed to Black History Month.”