[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 75 (Saturday, May 26, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E991]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E991]]
                   TRIBUTE TO NATIONAL TAP DANCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JOHN CONYERS, JR.

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 25, 2001

  Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, tap dancing is widely recognized as 
America's only original form of dance, yet for years it has been in 
danger of becoming a lost art. I introduced a resolution that 
established each May 25, as National Tap Day on September 15, 1988. As 
a result, people have been coming together to celebrate tap through 
both performance and study and examine the incredible contributions 
made by legendary dancers such as Howard ``Sandman'' Sims, the Nicholas 
Brothers and contemporary dancers such as Gregory Hines.
  I chose May 25, as National Tap Dance Day because it is was the 
birthday of Bill ``Bojangles'' Robinson. Mr. Robinson is credited with 
bringing this unique art form to perfection. Moreover, he was genuinely 
talented and well known worldwide for his work in movies and 
contributions to the art of tap dancing on both stage and film.
  Tap dancing has had an influence on other types of American art, 
including music, vaudeville, Broadway musical theater, and film as well 
as other dance forms. Presently, Savion Glover is the new young star of 
the tap dancing profession. He is the youngest man ever to be nominated 
for a Tony award for his performance. Savion has appeared with Gregory 
Hines and Tommy Tune on television in, Dance in America: Tap! He was 
also served as an inspiration for other young tap artist like the actor 
Dule Hill. However, if tap is not encouraged, it runs the risk of 
losing its popular support. Unless we continue our efforts to preserve 
tap, we are in danger of losing an art form that is an uniquely 
American creation.
  By passing the resolution designating May 25 as National Tap Dance 
Day, we in Congress have focused national attention on this great art 
form. Moreover, people around the country have come to better 
appreciate tap as an important part of our cultural heritage. I am 
pleased to know that the enactment of National Tap Dance Day and its 
annual celebration has served to increase public recognition, and 
support not only in this country but internationally as well.

                          ____________________