Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Congressman Louis Stokes as we approach what would have been his 100th birthday. Born on February 23, 1925, in Cleveland, Ohio, Louis Stokes rose from humble beginnings to become a giant in the fight for civil rights and a champion for the underserved. Along with his brother, Cleveland Mayor Carl Stokes, he made history and made a difference for northeast Ohio. His story is one of perseverance, service, and an unshakable belief in the promise of this Nation. A veteran of the United States Army and an attorney who argued landmark cases before the Supreme Court and a lifelong voice for the voiceless, Congressman Stokes' path was paved with courage and conviction, diligence, and determination, and a deep and abiding commitment to justice. In 1968, he became the first Black Representative for Ohio, bringing much-needed representation to this Chamber. During his 15 terms in the House, Congressman Stokes advocated for the poor, fought for civil rights, and supported our servicemembers and ensured that communities, like my district in Cleveland, received the resources and representation they deserve. As 1 of 13 founding members of the Congressional Black Caucus, he helped advance civil and human rights and promote economic empowerment. Today, the CBC has grown to a historic 62 members because of the work of Louis Stokes, Shirley Chisholm, and their generation.…”