On the recordFebruary 1, 2016
Each February our nation takes time to reflect on the countless contributions African Americans have made to this country's history. We celebrate innovators like Ohio District 11's own Langston Hughes, pioneers like astronaut Mae Jamison, as well as political and civil rights leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Black History Month represents inclusion and innovation. It promotes America at its best. For in this month, we appreciate our collective strength and recognize the diversity of each and every patriot. America is a country of immigrants, and our power lies in our differences. To quote Dr. King, ``We may have all come on different ships, but we're in the same boat now.'' No matter how we arrived, every American should have access to the same opportunity. Every individual should be able to reach his or her own potential and succeed in the home of the free and the land of the brave. Unfortunately, many do not have equitable access to opportunity. This is why the Congressional Black Caucus stands today. Despite the contributions and sacrifice of African Americans, many still suffer from the effects of historic injustice and prejudice. We are almost three times more likely to live in poverty than Whites, and six times more likely to be put in jail. Our unemployment rate is nearly two times the rates of Whites. When we do find work, we make less than our White counterparts.…





