[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 73 (Thursday, May 24, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E930]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   STAMP HONORING PAUL LEROY ROBESON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BOBBY L. RUSH

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 24, 2001

  Mr. RUSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce House Concurrent 
Resolution 143, expressing the sense of the Congress that the U.S. 
Postal Service issue a commemorative postage stamp honoring Paul Leroy 
Robeson. Sixty-six of my colleagues have joined me in support of this 
resolution.
  Paul Robeson, a famous African-American athlete, singer, actor, and 
advocate for the civil rights of people around the world was born on 
April 9, 1898 in Princeton, New Jersey. After receiving his degree from 
Columbia Law School in 1923, Paul Robeson left the legal profession for 
a career in the arts. Paul Robeson is well known for his inspiring 
performances in musicals, such as Show Boat, and theatrical 
performances, such as Shakespeare's Othello. With his distinctive deep 
baritone voice, Paul Robeson left audiences around the world 
captivated.
  Paul Robeson's brilliant on-stage performances were second only to 
his commitment to eradicating racial and social injustice in the United 
States and around the world. Paul Robeson used his oratory skills and 
knowledge of 25 languages to combat racial inequality in this country 
and around the world. Because of his stance, Paul Robeson was 
ostracized and disparaged by many.
  Even at the risk to his own safety and professional stature, Mr. 
Robeson stood up against racial bigotry during a time when segregation 
was legal in America and lynching was common place.
  Paul Robeson never took the easy road in life. Where he could have 
easily focused solely on his career, Paul Robeson chose to stand up in 
defiance of the unjust social practices of his time. Paul Robeson 
forced America to look into a mirror at itself and confront the racial 
injustice commonly accepted during his lifetime.
  In honor of his undying efforts and enduring personal sacrifice, I 
have introduced this legislation and urge all of my colleagues to join 
me in this tribute to Paul Robeson.

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