On the recordJuly 21, 2022
Over this past week, we have had to raise concerns about whether the Constitution still stood strong. I am glad that we have worked hard to ensure the Ninth Amendment and the equal protection of the law are viable parts of American society and constitutional rights. I rise today to promote H.R. 40, the Commission to Study Slavery and Develop Reparation Proposals, as a way of redress, repair, and restoration for the 246 years of slavery. I think it is important and an important moment for the country to pause and understand this historic moment in our history, the contributions that slaves made, including building this very place, the United States Capitol and the White House, and, as well, the economic engine that they created when making cotton king--never to be compensated, never to be provided for, but still turned into patriots that fought in every world war. It is crucial that we move expeditiously to establish this commission to tell their story and to work on the restoration of the disparities that are found in the African-American community from east to west and north to south. I cannot think of a reason why this House and this administration would not want to move on something as embracing as H.R. 40. Let's move it now. ____________________
