[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 17 (Tuesday, February 26, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Pages S1200-S1201]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    IN RECOGNITION OF OSCAR MICHEAUX

 Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. President, I rise today to honor Oscar 
Micheaux, one of the pioneers of American film. Though Mr. Micheaux 
passed away over fifty years ago, the Fort Lee Film Commission has 
chosen to honor his historic contributions to the American film 
industry as part of its Black History Month celebrations.
  In every age, in every walk of life, there is an individual who 
possesses the vision to move their craft forward in previously 
unimaginable ways. Oscar Micheaux opened a door for many visionary film 
makers who were too follow him. With the production of ``The 
Homesteader,'' Mr. Micheaux became the first African-American to 
produce a silent film. In 1931, his production, ``The Exile,'' became 
the first African-American ``talkie'' to be produced. He also holds the 
distinction of being the first African-American to have one of his 
films open in a white owned theater.
  As a credit to his work, Oscar Micheaux has been honored for his work 
with a star on Hollywood's ``Walk of Fame''. As the Fort Lee Film 
Commission honors this groundbreaking individual, I wish to express my 
gratitude at being able to honor such an influential film producer. The 
film industry has truly been enriched for his contributions.

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