On the recordFebruary 14, 2024
This is Black History Month. This is a moment to recount the journey of African Americans in America. I rise today to speak about H.R. 40, the Commission to Study Slavery and Develop Reparation Proposals introduced by John Conyers almost 40 years ago. I was honored and privileged on his retirement for him giving me the honor of carrying this legislation. For many in this body, one would wonder why we need to retrace that history of slavery. It is an amazing and powerful history. It is an amazing history of unselfishness, but at the same time the dividing of families, the blocking of learning to read, and the violence of the whole condition of slavery. Again, it is a time in America's history that we must review and understand. As a Member of the United States Congress, I have introduced this legislation and look forward to its passage by executive order. At the same time, I want my colleagues to come join me, to walk the Emancipation Trail, which I have introduced and it has passed in this House. That is the trail that slaves took in 1865 after General Granger came and indicated that slaves west of the Mississippi were free. That trail has not yet been finalized, but, Mr. Speaker, this will be a major part of America's history. Join me in supporting the Emancipation Trail. ____________________
