[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 19 (Friday, February 18, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E288]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                BLACK HISTORY TRIBUTE TO JESSIE D. BANKS

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                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 17, 2005

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of 
February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of 
the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution 
to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well 
represented from both a local and national perspective.
  Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as 
``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, 
black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when 
the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far 
back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they 
gained a presence in our history books.
  Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial 
role African Americans have played in the development of our nation 
must not be overlooked.
  I would like to recognize Mrs. Jessie D. Banks of Holmes County, 
Mississippi. A native of Tchula, MS, Mrs. Banks received her Bachelors 
of Science degree in Elementary Education in 1963 and served as an 
elementary school teacher in Tchula until 1986. Mrs. Banks is not only 
noted in Holmes County for her long and distinguished career in 
education, but also for her dedication in public service and the 
political arena.
  Mrs. Banks was elected as the first African-American Alderwoman for 
the City of Tchula in 1977. Mrs. Banks served as a delegate to the 
National Democratic Convention in Atlanta in 1988 and in Chicago in 
1992. In 1989, she was elected as the first African American woman 
mayor of the City of Tchula. She was re-elected mayor in 1993. Mrs. 
Banks returned as a delegate to the DNC in Los Angeles in 2000 and the 
2004 DNC convention in Boston.
  Mrs. Banks' public service and political career spans many other 
public endeavors including NAACP President for Holmes county, 
Commissioner of Regional 6 Housing Authority, and membership in Habitat 
for Humanity, The National Council of Negro Women and a life member of 
the National Alumni Association for Mississippi Valley State 
University.
  I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this 
outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of 
Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but 
year round.

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