[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 140 (Thursday, October 9, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1999]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           THE SPIRIT OF ATONEMENT AND THE MILLION MAN MARCH

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. CAROLYN C. KILPATRICK

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 9, 1997

  Ms. KILPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, as you know, we will soon leave for a 
week-long district work period. However, I did not want my colleagues 
to leave before pointing out a key event that will occur next week in 
many cities in our Nation. Two years ago on October 16, 1997, the 
largest nonviolent demonstration in the history of the United States 
took place less than 100 yards from where I now stand. This 
demonstration, the Million Man March, saw African-American men stand up 
and dedicate themselves to take control of their lives, their destiny, 
and their communities. A larger theme of the march was that of 
atonement, to reconcile our differences with one another so that we may 
face all of the challenges that oppress African-Americans in a solid 
wall of unity, in a united front of understanding and peace. Despite 
entreaties by the media and other sources, initially questioning 
whether any men would show up for this march, combined with the media's 
sub rosa notions of violence that was expected from such a gathering of 
African-American men, this march was a fantastic success. Many of our 
States, cities, and communities are budding with new organizations, 
large and small, dedicated toward making our neighborhoods a safer 
place.
  I am an avid, ardent, and enthusiastic supporter of the goals and 
ideals of the march: acknowledging past mistakes, confessing these 
errors to those whom we have wronged, asking for forgiveness, and 
having the restoration of spirit that is encompassed in taking these 
steps. Collectively, African-Americans must atone for the destruction 
that is going on in our communities. Collectively, America must atone 
for the divisiveness that has wreaked so much dissension among all of 
God's children. And, it is collectively how these challenges will be 
solved. The theme of the Holy Day of Atonement, ``To be Young, Gifted 
and Atoning,'' will emphasize a focus on what needs to be done, with 
and for our youth, to save us all.
  It is in this spirit that I honor and support the goals and ideals of 
October 16, 1997, as a day of atonement. Each city will observe this 
day in its own manner. ``To be Young, Gifted and Atoning,'' emphasizing 
the condition of our youth, will allow all Americans to discover where 
we the power is located to solve these problems--the power is located 
within ourselves.
  I support the effort of African-American men to build the strength 
within themselves to forge better men, better sons, better homes, 
better communities, and better nations. I support the effort of 
African-American women to work with African-American men toward these 
desperately-needed ideals. I support the effort of every American to 
improve our country, reach out and help those willing to help 
themselves. The Holy Day of Atonement is an excellent vehicle to 
continue upon the success of two years ago, and I applaud the hard work 
of its dedicated staff and volunteers in the 15th Congressional 
District of Michigan and in other cities throughout our great Nation.

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