Ted Poe: “Mr. Speaker, as the poet Maya Angelo once said, ``History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced…”

“Mr. Speaker, as the poet Maya Angelo once said, ``History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again.'' I find these words fitting as we consider H.R. 3432 today. For over 200 years, countless Africans died in brutal conditions during the so-called Middle Passage, the overseas voyage of their lives to enslavement in America. The United States formally prohibited the importation of slaves nearly 200 years ago, although the institution of slavery persisted in this country for another 50 years afterwards. This bill will establish a commission to ensure that this important anniversary is appropriately commemorated within the United States and also abroad. In essence, the bill seeks to ensure that all Americans, no matter their age, race, gender, culture, or even religion, are afforded the opportunity to learn more about the institution of slavery and its vestiges so that we may understand this tragic aspect of history. While we cannot unlive our past, it is hoped that this commission will promote greater tolerance and understanding among all Americans, while shedding light on the fact that slavery still exists in the modern world.”