[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 67 (Wednesday, May 25, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: May 25, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
INTRODUCTION OF A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE SENSE OF CONGRESS THAT THE 
  U.S. POSTAL SERVICE SHOULD ISSUE A STAMP COMMEMORATING LEWIS HOWARD 
                                LATIMER

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                          HON. FLOYD H. FLAKE

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 25, 1994

  Mr. FLAKE. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing, along with many of my 
colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus, and with the support of 
the New York congressional delegation, a resolution expressing the 
sense of Congress that the U.S. Postal Service should issue a stamp 
commemorating Lewis Howard Latimer. The time has come to recognize the 
contributions of Lewis Howard Latimer--(1848-1928)--a leading black 
inventor, a scientist, a civic leader, and a resident of New York City. 
A U.S. postage stamp issued to honor this very distinguished individual 
would draw attention to one whose life embodied the spirit and essence 
of America and offer a role model to people of all backgrounds.
  Latimer's scientific accomplishments include a long-lasting carbon 
filament for Thomas Edison's light bulb which made commercial lighting 
feasible, drawings for Alexander Bell's telephone patent, and the 
installation of some of the earliest outdoor electrical lighting 
systems in such cities as Philadelphia, New York, and Montreal. In 
addition, he wrote the first book concerning the revolutionary electric 
lighting of Thomas Edison to be published in America.
  Latimer was an artist, poet, and humanist who believed in the value 
of intellectual improvement, hard work, and in the opportunities 
America offered to everyone. As the child of former slaves, Latimer 
believed in civil liberties for all and had a long friendship with such 
notable civil rights leaders as Frederick Douglas.
  A stamp issued to honor Lewis Latimer would commemorate the 
achievement of this pioneering African-American inventor and humanist 
who was a pivotal figure in the race to develop electric lighting and 
overcome racial intolerance. A U.S. postage stamp would stimulate 
interest in this multitalented individual and offer his achievements as 
a role model to today's youth.

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