[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 126 (Friday, September 24, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1959]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   TRIBUTE TO THE SOJOURNER TRUTH INSTITUTE IN COMMEMORATION OF THE 
                   SOJOURNER TRUTH MEMORIAL MONUMENT

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                            HON. NICK SMITH

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 24, 1999

  Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
Sojourner Truth Institute for their hard work and dedication to the 
Sojourner Truth Memorial Monument, which is being unveiled in Battle 
Creek, Michigan on Saturday, September 25, 1999.
  Deserving recognition for this historic event are monument sculptor 
Tina Allen, Institute Administrator Michael Evans, Dr. Velma Laws-Clay 
and the entire Monument Steering Committee for the vision of turning an 
idea into a reality. The monument will stand to commemorate Sojourner 
Truth's crusade for the abolition of slavery, women's suffrage, and 
human rights for all.
  Sojourner Truth is one of Battle Creek's greatest citizens and her 
impact on American history is immeasurable. She stood as a strong voice 
for the nation's ideals of freedom and equality at a time of great 
conflict. She was an abolitionist and an outspoken leader for women's 
rights. ``Today I have the right to speak out in public and be as 
successful as I choose to be because she was a pioneer for the rights 
of women and others'', said Dr. Laws-Clay.
  The Sojourner Truth Institute, with the proud support of the entire 
Battle Creek community, will sponsor a weekend-long celebration 
culminating with the unveiling of sculptor Tina Allen's 12-foot tall 
bronze statue of Sojourner Truth in Battle Creek's new Monument Park. 
``The intention was to provide a place where visitors and residents of 
the city can learn about what she really meant to the city of Battle 
Creek and bring the city's history to an even larger audience. It is 
also a very appropriate welcome at the gateway of our city'', said 
Michael Evans.
  I wish to thank everyone involved in bringing this monument to life 
and continuing the legacy of Sojourner Truth, who is one of the 
greatest human rights activists in this nation's history. I am honored 
to represent a city with such character and determination. The work of 
the Sojourner Truth Institute will ensure that Battle Creek and America 
long remembers Sojourner Truth's message of freedom and I commend the 
Institute's vision and dedication.

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