[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 18 (Thursday, February 12, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E181]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    IN HONOR OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 11, 2004

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, the month of February is dedicated to 
recognizing and celebrating the often overlooked achievements and 
contributions of African-Americans throughout our country's history.
  Although African-Americans settled the American frontier alongside 
British colonists, it was not until the establishment of ``Black 
History Month'' in 1926, that they were afforded the respect and 
dignity they are rightfully due. If not for the efforts of Dr. Carter 
G. Woodson, who first noticed a glaring disparity in historical texts 
and established the ``Association for the Study of Afro-American Life 
and History,'' the stories of prominent and influential African 
American men and women would still be hidden in the shadows today.
  The choice of February as the month of celebration honors the 
birthday of two important figures in the history of African-Americans. 
The first is Frederick Douglass, a leader of the abolitionist movement 
during the Civil War, as well as a prolific author, newspaper editor, 
and dedicated civil servant. The second is none other than our 
sixteenth president of the United States, the author of the 
Emancipation Proclamation, Abraham Lincoln. The month of February also 
marks the anniversary of important events such as the birth of civil 
rights leader W.E.B. Dubois, the ratification of the Fifteenth 
Amendment granting black suffrage, the first black senator and the 
establishment of the NAACP.
  I proudly represent the 17th district of New York, which is rich in 
African-American history. From early politicians to entertainers, 
African-Americans in the Bronx, Westchester, and Rockland counties have 
contributed to our nation. This month I would like to recognize Denzel 
Washington's contribution to our culture through his talented work in 
film. A native of Mount Vernon, this actor, producer and director is 
one of only two African-Americans to have received an academy award in 
the best actor category. While living in Mount Vernon, Denzel 
Washington was an active community member taking advantage of the Boys' 
Club of America. Today he continues his work as a leading spokesman for 
the organization, as well as a being an outstanding supporter of the 
Nelson Mandela Children's Fund and an AIDS-hospice called The Gathering 
Place. Through his talent and dedication, Denzel Washington has left 
his mark as a positive leader in our community and important 
contributor to our culture.
  I am always inspired by the community spirit and leadership I witness 
from African-Americans in New York and around the country. It is my 
hope that as we commemorate Black History Month in the future, we will 
continue to celebrate the many achievements and rich culture of 
African-Americans.

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