[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 7, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E44-E45]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  STATEMENT OF CONGRESSMAN CHARLES B. RANGEL, RONALD BROWN BUILDING, 
                            DESIGNATION BILL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, January 7, 1997

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to introduce legislation 
designating the Federal

[[Page E45]]

building located at 290 Broadway in New York, NY, as the Ronald H. 
Brown Federal Building.
  Ronald H. Brown, the first African-American Secretary of Commerce, 
was an extraordinary statesman whose force, competence and sheer 
commitment forged new ground for U.S. commerce. The ultimate sacrifice 
of his life in exceptional service to his country is further testimony 
to his leadership and passion for economic development and opportunity 
at home and abroad.
  Ronald H. Brown loved this country and represented the best that 
America has to offer. he was a compassionate advocate for civil rights; 
a bridge builder mending the divisions of race, religion and cultures; 
a mentor developing young talent and extending the ladder of 
opportunity to a new generation of leaders; and, indeed an 
extraordinary public servant and leader.
  His life was one marked by an outstanding record of accomplishment 
and service to America. He served as Army Captain; Vice President of 
the National Urban League; Chief Counsel to the Senate Judiciary 
Committee; a distinguished attorney; Chairman of the Democratic 
National Committee; a trusted advisor to the President of the United 
States; a husband; a father; and, a friend.
  The designation of this building, home to Federal agencies and site 
of the recently discovered African-American slave burial ground, would 
honor Ron Brown's service and memory. This designation would serve as 
an inspiration and reminder to all Americans of Ron Brown's 
contributions and the noble cause for which he sacrificed his life.

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